Acetabular fracture in India: An epidemiological study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic surgery
• Trauma care
• Radiology

Background:

• Acetabular fractures are complex injuries often resulting from high-energy trauma.
• The incidence of these fractures is increasing, particularly in diverse populations.
• Understanding epidemiological patterns in India is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the demographic characteristics, fracture patterns, and surgical approaches for acetabular fractures in India.
• To provide insights into the epidemiology of acetabular trauma in a large Indian cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 3643 patients from four level-1 trauma centers in India (2001-2019).
• Inclusion criteria required complete clinical and radiological data, including CT scans.
• Data evaluated demographics, fracture types, associated injuries, and surgical interventions.

Main Results:

• The majority of patients were young males (84.05%), with 44.9% aged 19-40.
• Posterior wall fractures were most common (20.7%); pelvic injuries were the most frequent associated injury (9.8%).
• Operative management was used in 82% of cases, with the Kocher-Langenbeck approach being most common (42.5%).

Conclusions:

• High-velocity trauma is the primary cause of acetabular fractures in young Indian males.
• Posterior wall fractures and associated pelvic injuries are prevalent.
• The Kocher-Langenbeck approach is the preferred surgical method.