Simultaneous anterior and posterior approaches for complex acetabular fractures

Simultaneous Kocher-Langenbeck and iliofemoral exposures of the acetabulum are a safe and useful alternative to other extensile exposures and can be performed with similar morbidity. The advantages of simultaneous anterior and posterior approaches over extensile exposures include the absence of a trochanteric osteotomy. The combined approach is most useful in transverse, transverse posterior wall fractures with wide anterior displacement, T type fractures with significant anterior-inferior displacement, or both column fractures with posterior wall involvement.