The extended ilioinguinal approach for specific both column fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Acetabular fracture surgical approach selection relies on Letournel's classification.
• The ilioinguinal approach is standard for both column fractures, but challenging for posterior extensions.
• The extended iliofemoral approach is often recommended for complex posterior involvement.

Observation:

• A novel extended ilioinguinal approach combines ilioinguinal and posterior sacroiliac joint dissection into a single incision.
• Six patients with complex acetabular fractures were treated using this combined approach.
• The technique provided enhanced visualization and facilitated fracture reduction.

Findings:

• The extended ilioinguinal approach achieved perfect or near-perfect reductions in all treated cases.
• This method potentially mitigates surgical morbidity associated with the extended iliofemoral approach.
• The approach is particularly useful for both column acetabular fractures with posterior extension to the sacroiliac joint or sciatic buttress.

Implications:

• The extended ilioinguinal approach represents a valuable alternative for specific complex acetabular fractures.
• This technique may improve surgical outcomes and patient recovery in challenging cases.
• Further studies could validate the long-term benefits and broader applicability of this surgical approach.