Management of geriatric acetabular fractures: Contemporary treatment strategies

Acetabular fractures in the geriatric population are typically low-energy fractures resulting from a fall from standing height. Compromised bone quality in the elderly, as well as this population's concomitant medical comorbidities, render the management of such fractures challenging and controversial. Non-operative management remains the mainstay of treatment, although such a choice is associated with numerous and serious complications related to both the hip joint as well as the general condition of the patient. On the other hand, operatively treating acetabular fractures (e.g., with osteosynthesis or total hip arthroplasty) is gaining popularity. Osteosynthesis can be performed with open reduction and internal fixation or with minimally invasive techniques. Total hip arthroplasty could be performed either in the acute phase combined with osteosynthesis or as a delayed procedure after a period of non-operative management or after failed osteosynthesis of the acetabulum. Regardless of the implemented treatment, orthogeriatric co-management is considered extremely crucial, and it is currently one of the pillars of a successful outcome after an acetabular fracture.