Management of Intraoperative Acetabular Fractures in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Current Concept Review

Intraoperative acetabular fractures (IAFs), a complication seldomly encountered in total hip arthroplasty, are typically a result of the impact of insertion of a cementless press-fit cup. Factors that contribute to the risk of these types of fractures include poor bone quality, highly sclerotic bone, and the use of a press-fit cup that is excessively large. The approach to management of these fractures is dependent on when they are identified. Immediate stabilization measures should be implemented for management of fractures detected during surgery. When fractures are detected postoperatively, the decision regarding conservative treatment is dependent on the stability of the implant and the specific fracture pattern. In the majority of cases, effective treatment of an acetabular fracture detected intraoperatively can be administered using a multi-hole revision cup along with anchoring screws in the various regions of the acetabulum. Selection of plate osteosynthesis of the posterior column is recommended when there is a large posterior wall fragment or pelvic discontinuity. In cases where anatomical dimensions allow, cup-cage reconstruction may offer a promising alternative to a combined hip procedure. The number of reports addressing the management of IAFs is limited. This review focuses on outlining the strategies that are currently available for management of this seldomly encountered complication.