Extensile triradiate approach for complex acetabular reconstruction in total hip arthroplasty

The triradiate approach as described by Mears has been used for open reduction of complex dual-column acetabular fractures. Mears extended the anterior limb of this incision to the symphysis pubis by the ilioinguinal approach. From a consecutive series of 43 total hip revisions, this approach was used successfully in seven cases in which extensile exposure was necessary to revise complicated acetabular reconstructions for arthroplasty. The approach was used also to perform complex acetabular reconstruction after en bloc tumor resection. Three patients had severe intrapelvic component protrusio and anterior column deficiency where close proximity of the prosthesis and femoral neurovascular bundle were detected before surgery. Massive allograft and pelvic reconstructions were used to span large anterior column defects and to stabilize pelvic dehiscence. Complications included one hip dislocation and one posterior flap tip necrosis. Follow-up ranged from six to 34 months. No graft failure has been noted.