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Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Apr 2017 | page:14-16 | Ravi Gupta, Ashwani Soni Author: Ravi Gupta [1], Ashwani Soni [1] [1] Department of Orthopaedics Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh 160031India. Address of Correspondence Dr Ravi Gupta Department of Orthopaedics Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh 160031 Email: ravikgupta@yahoo.com Abstract Surgical approach to […]

Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Apr 2017 | page:10-13 | Raju Vaishya, Vipul Vijay, Amit K Agarwal, Abhishek Vaish Author: Raju Vaishya [1], Vipul Vijay [1], Amit K Agarwal [1], Abhishek Vaish [2] [1] Department of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India, [2] Department of Orthopaedics, Canterbury […]

Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Apr 2017 | page:14-16 | Ravi Gupta, Ashwani Soni

Author: Ravi Gupta [1], Ashwani Soni [1]

[1] Department of Orthopaedics Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh 160031India.

Address of Correspondence
Dr Ravi Gupta
Department of Orthopaedics
Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh 160031
Email: ravikgupta@yahoo.com

Abstract

Surgical approach to acetabulum fractures depend on the type of fracture and fracture displacement along with surgical preference of the surgeon. Ilio-femoral approach is one of the most important approaches for acetabular fractures. It allows access to anterior column as well as anterior wall fractures. This symposium article details the surgical technique as well as indications and shortcomings of this approach.
Keywords: Ilio-femoral appraoch, acetabulum fractures, anterior column fractures.

Introduction

Operative reduction and fixation is considered as accepted treatment method for displaced acetabular fractures now days. Surgical approach to acetabulum may be anterior (ilioin-guinal, ilio-femoral, Stoppa approach [1,2]), posterior (Kocher-Langenbeck approach and variants [3]) or combined (simultaneous or different sittings) [4]. The choice of approach depends on the type of fracture, displacement and the surgeon’s preference [5].
Ilio-femoral approach provides wide access to the entire internal iliac fossa including visualization of the anterior aspect of the sacroiliac joint. This approach also provides digital and some visual access to the quadrilateral surface and greater sciatic notch. Medially, along the anterior column this approach provides access up to iliopectenial eminence.
Combined with Kocher-Langenbeck approach, anterior column component of T-type fracture can be fixed by this approach. When combined with pfannenstiel approach for symphysis pubis, almost all types of anterior column and anterior wall fractures can be addressed by this approach.
Surgical approach to acetabulum fractures depend on the type of fracture and fracture displacement along with surgical preference of the surgeon. Ilio-femoral approach is one of the most important approaches for acetabular fractures. It allows access to anterior column as well as anterior wall fractures. This symposium article details the surgical technique as well as indications and shortcomings of this approach
Anterior column fractures where main displacement is cephalad to the joint are the best candidates for this approach. Associated anterior + posterior hemitransverse fractures are also addressed by this approach.

Skin incision

Skin incision begins proximally posterior to the gluteus medius pillar, runs parallel to the iliac crest to the anterior superior iliac spine and then extend distally between sartoreus and tensor muscle. In modification to this approach, the dissection stops the anterior extent of proximal limb of skin incision 1-2 cm lateral to the anterior superior iliac spine and then extends distally and laterally directly over the anterior aspect of the tensor muscle belly. This reduces the damage to lateral cutaneous nerve and prevent to some extent the skin problems at the junction of two limbs of incision. Position of the proximal limb of incision need to be modified according to the body habitus of patient as scar directly over the iliac crest in a thin patient can be problematic.

Superficial dissection

Deeper dissection is done through subcutaneous tissue. External oblique muscle is released from the iliac crest leaving thick fascio/periosteal cuff for subsequent repair at the time of closure. This release of muscle is started posteriorly where it overhangs the iliac crest and extends anteriorly to the level of planned anterior superior iliac spine osteotomy or sartorius/ inguinal ligament release. Internal iliac fossa is exposed by lifting the iliac muscle subperiosteally and packed with sponge.

Osteotomy of ASIS

Osteotomy of ASIS is done with block measuring 2 cm in depth and 2 cm in anteroposterior diameter. Tensor attachment to this bony block is released. This osteotomised bone block along with its attachments of iliacus, external oblique, Sartorius, and inguinal ligamanet is displaced medially.
This osteotomy is not possible in cases where fracture line reaches to the area of osteotomy. In these cases Sartorius and inguinal ligament is released from ASIS as a single cuff of tissue.
Tensor-sartorius interval is identified and fascia of thigh is incised over tensor muscle belly starting 1-2 cm lateral to the ASIS. The tensor muscle is retracted laterally and the medial sheath of the tensor fascia is retracted medially protecting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Subsequently the dissection is done through the floor of tensor sheath and the proximal and distal exposures and joined. Approximately 10 cm from the ASIS the ascending branches of the lateral femoral circumflex artery and vein are encountered under the aponeurotic fascial layer over the rectus femoris muscle which needs to be identified and ligated in case if wide exposure is required. True pelvis is accessed by releasing iliopectineal fascia from the pelvic brim starting just anterior to the SI joint and extending anteriorly to the level of the pubic root. subperiosteal elevation of the obturator internus from the quadrilateral surface can provide further access to pelvis.
At this stage entire iliac fossa and anterior sacroiliac joint is accessible. Quadrilateral lateral plate and greater sciatic notch is approached to certain extent either by direct visualisation or digital palpation. By retracting iliopsoas muscle medially, after relaxing it by doing flexion and adduction at hip joint; the exposure can be extended medially up to iliopectenial eminence.
Further access to anterior column, medial to iliopectineal eminence can be gained through a separate pfannenstiel incision for pubic symphysis. By doing this almost all types of fractures of anterior column can be addressed.
Corona mortise is an anastomosis behind the pubic symphysis between the obturator and external iliac arteries. By approaching medial most part of anterior column through pfannenstiel incision this anastomoses should be identified and ligated if present otherwise this anastamoses can be life threatening if injured.

Closure:
After placing the drain osteotomy of ASIS is fixed with 2.7 or 3.5 mm lag screws. External iliac muscle is sutured to iliac crest by fascial/periosteal repair. Fascial repair is done at distal limb of wound followed by subcutenous and skin closure.

How to Cite this article: Gupta R, Soni A. Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum. Trauma International Jan-Apr 2017;3(1): 14-16.
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Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

April 10, 2017/in Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Jan-April 2017

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Apr 2017 | page:10-13 | Raju Vaishya, Vipul Vijay, Amit K Agarwal, Abhishek Vaish

Author: Raju Vaishya [1], Vipul Vijay [1], Amit K Agarwal [1], Abhishek Vaish [2]

[1] Department of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India,
[2] Department of Orthopaedics, Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent, UK.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Raju Vaishya,
Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India.
E-mail: raju.vaishya@gmail.com

Abstract

Acetabular fractures are often difficult to manage. The majority of fractures require anatomical reduction to prevent secondary
osteoarthritis and instability. Often a single approach is sufficient to fix these fractures. The choice of approach depends on the
major anatomical involvement of the acetabulum. However, some fracture patterns require more than a single approach to fixing the
fractured fragments adequately. This article addresses this particular issue.
Keywords: Acetabulum, fractures, pelvic, surgical approaches.

What to Learn from this Article?
The fixation of all the acetabular fractures cannot be achieved with a single approach, at all the times. Hence, it is necessary to do a good pre-operative planning and identify the fractures which may require a dual approach to achieve satisfactory fixation.

Introduction

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Here we present you a series of review of few Medical Apps which we regularly use and make a difference in our lives and the way we practice Orthopaedics and increase productivity.

Review

The basic fracture fixation principles in the lower extremity are anatomical reduction and the possibility of early rehabilitation. A combination of these two factors can help one achieve good prognosis and outcomes. The acetabular fractures are no different. They should be managed aggressively, and an attempt should be made to achieve anatomical reduction so as to prevent the most common complication of osteoarthritis (1). There are some restrictions on the surgical management of acetabulum fractures which may influence the decision of the treating surgeon towards an operative or conservative treatment. Factors like the proximity to important anatomical structures, the difficulty in achieving surgical exposure and the lack of experience in managing these fractures, all influence the decision-making (1).
With advances in imaging technology, a better understanding of anatomy and improved approaches for the management of the acetabulum fractures; focus is shifting towards an effort to achieve anatomical reduction (2). The first step in achieving anatomical reduction for any fracture is good surgical exposure. The most commonly used approaches are the Kocher Langenback and ilioinguinal approach, which have been the workhorse for acetabular surgeons. Recently, further modifications and some extensile approaches like iliofemoral, Stoppa’s, trochanteric osteotomy, etc have also been introduced (3-8). The type and combination of the surgical approach to be used is of paramount importance in achieving a good outcome.

Limitations of a Single Approach

The first step is to understand the anatomy, displacement and the direction of displacement of the fracture. The second step is to plan an approach which would allow proper visualization and accurate reduction of the fracture fragments (2). The ilioinguinal approach is useful for fixation of the anterior column and wall fractures, but they are unable to help in achieving an accurate reduction in cases of displaced posterior column fractures (1) (Figure 1). Similarly, the Kocher-Langenback approach can be used for good visualization of the posterior column and wall fractures, but they provide inadequate exposure to the anterior column and wall (1) (Figure 2).

Matta emphasized the need for anatomical reduction of the fracture fragments in acetabulum for optimal results (9). The key to anatomical reduction is good exposure and visualization of the fracture fragments. A single approach can adequately manage fractures involving a single column or wall. Also, certain bicolumnar fractures which have minimal displacement in one of the columns can also be managed by approaching the more displaced column directly.
However, in certain fractures like T-type fractures with significant displacement in both columns cannot be managed with a single approach. They require either the use of the described extensile approaches like iliofemoral, tri-radiate, etc. or the use of sequential approaches. These approaches are not without their sets of complications like increased rates of infection, delayed rehabilitation, higher rates of ectopic ossification and prolonged abductor weakness (2). Hence, whenever an extensile or a sequential approach is planned, the decision should be based on sound scientific judgement.

Fractures which can not be accessed through K-L approach alone
1. Both columns fractures
2. Anterior column fractures
3. Anterior column and posterior Hemi transverse fracture

Fractures which can not be accessed through ilioinguinal approach alone
1. T-type fractures
2. Isolated posterior column fractures

Fractures needing more than one approach
The fractures which may require more than one approach for an optimal result include –
1. T-type fractures
2. Selected both column fractures with significant displacement (>10mm) in both the columns.
3. Transtectal transverse fractures
4. Transverse fractures with posterior wall fracture with wide displacement
T-type and complete both column fractures
The T-type fractures and complete both column fractures need special mention. In these types of fractures, the femoral head is displaced medially, and both the columns rotate around the femoral head in opposite directions. This mechanism of rotation of the two columns can be understood as one similar to the two doors of a gate opening up in opposite direction around a central hinge. Any attempt at indirect reduction of the columns in these types of fractures will only lead to maintenance of the malrotation and the persistence of inaccurate reduction (1). These fractures are an absolute indication for open reduction, direct visualization, and internal fixation. Hence, these fractures may sometimes require the use of extensile approach or two sequential approaches for optimal fixation (2).

Transtectal fractures which have an anterior displacement also may require sequential approaches for fixation of these fractures. Some of the transtectal fractures may be fixed using a single anterior or posterior approach, especially if they have isolated posterior displacement. Some fractures with high anterior obliquity, on Judet views, with minimal displacement may also be fixed with an isolated posterior approach. Fractures with large displacement (>10 mm) in the anterior direction, usually need sequential surgical approaches (10).
In the transtectal fractures, the vertical nature of the fracture line makes it difficult to palpate the reduction through the greater sciatic notch (11). Moreover, since the fracture line passes through the supra-acetabular dome, imperfect reductions are very poorly tolerated (11). An adequate fixation may require in some of these fractures to utilize two approaches.
Transverse plus posterior wall fractures may make it difficult to be fixed through the isolated anterior approach. If approached through the K-L approach alone, the reduction of the transverse fractures may be difficult to assess through the posterior wall window, even after femoral head distraction. This may make it useful that the surgeon fixes the posterior wall using the K-L approach and then use the ilioinguinal approach for fixation and assessment of the transverse fracture reduction and fixation (1).

Decision making

The decision making for the choice of effective approach depends on the pre-operative CT scan (10). The first choice of fixation of the fractures mentioned is the Kocher-Langenback approach in preferably prone or lateral decubitus position. The pre-operative CT scan should be assessed and if there is a vertical fracture pattern or greater anterior displacement, then it would not be amenable to fixation through the isolated posterior approach but would require an additional anterior approach for optimal fixation (1,10).

Which approach first?

The decision of the first approach to be used depends on various factors. The amount of communication in one of the columns is one of the major determinants. The column which has a greater amount of communition should be fixed first. In the presence of a dislocation, the approach which gives direct access to the side of dislocation should be approached first. In case both the columns have equal comminution or are equally displaced, most of the surgeons prefer making the posterior approach first in the prone or the floppy lateral position (2). The anterior approach is made after making the patient supine.
The T-type fractures are a special case in the combined approach. It is often impossible to fix the posterior column through the K-L approach, without the screws passing through the anterior column fractures (11). Thus, the fractures of the anterior column must be reduced first, which makes the subsequent reduction of the posterior column and wall more amenable.
There have been some studies in the recent English literature, which have used the simultaneous anterior and the posterior approaches by two surgical teams (2). The advantages of simultaneous anterior and posterior approaches are decreased surgical time and simultaneous assessment of the reduction from anterior as well as the posterior directions. The disadvantages of this simultaneous approach are the requirement of two surgical teams which are equally adept and versed with acetabular fractures (2). Also, the anterior exposure is a bit difficult in the floppy lateral position, and the exposure is tough in obese patients (2).
Disadvantages
The disadvantages with the use of simultaneous or sequential approaches for acetabular fixation are –
1. Increased blood loss
2. Increased morbidity
3. Increased incidence of heterotopic ossification – due to increased soft tissue manipulation
4. Increased surgical time

Literature review

Combined exposures of the acetabulum have been used in the literature. Matta reported a very low incidence of 2% out of a total of 262 fractures operated (12). Letournel used a sequentially combined approach in only 3% of the cases, out of a total of 849 cases (3). Similarly, Mayo reported an incidence of 4% for combined approaches in their series of the acetabulum fractures (13).
The most important aim in acetabular fractures is anatomical reduction and adequate fixation. Even though all these studies emphasize that the number of fractures requiring more than one approach be limited, surgeon awareness is important so that an inaccurate reduction is not accepted. Adequate pre-operative planning using all the possible radiographic views and the CT scans available should be done, so that the surgeon is aware of the possibility of using two approaches based on the type of fracture and the displacement. This information can help the surgeon as well his team, including anaesthetists and assistants, be aware and prepared for the same.
The decision regarding whether the approach is made simultaneous or sequential and under the same or different anaesthesia, should be taken by surgeon expertise and OT backup. In most scenarios, the column with more comminution should be approached first and in the setting of equal comminution, the posterior column should be approached first.

References

1. Matta JM. Operative indications and choice of surgical approach for fractures of the acetabulum. Techniques Orthopaed 1986;1(1):13-22.
2. Harris AM, Althausen P, Kellam JF, Bosse MJ. Simultaneous anterior and posterior approaches for complex acetabular fractures. J Orthop Trauma. 2008 Aug;22(7):494-7.
3. Letournel E, Judet R, eds. Fractures of the Acetabulum. 2nd ed. Berlin, Germany: Springer-Verlag; 1993.
4. Mears DC, Rubash HE. Extensile exposures of the pelvis. Contemp Orthop. 1983;6:21–32.
5. Reinert CM, Bosse MJ, Poka A, et al. A modified extensile exposure for the treatment of complex or malunited acetabular fractures. J Bone Joint Surg. 1988;70A:329–337.
6. Routt ML Jr, Swiontkowski MF. Operative treatment of complex acetabular fractures. Combined anterior and posterior exposures during the same procedure. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1990;72:897–904.
7. Griffin DB, BeaulA ˜ PE, Matta JM. Safety and efficacy of the extended iliofemoral approach in the treatment of complex fractures of the
acetabulum. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2005;87:1391–1396.
8. Wey J, DiPasquale D, Levitt L, et al. Operative treatment of acetabular fractures through the extensile Henry approach. J Trauma. 1999;46: 255–260.
9. Matta JM. Fractures of the acetabulum: accuracy of reduction and clinical results in patients operatively treated within three weeks after injury. J Bone Joint Surg. 1996;78A:1632–1644.
10. Bogdan Y, Dwivedi S, Tornetta P 3rd. A surgical approach algorithm for transverse posterior wall fractures aids in reduction quality. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2014 Nov;472(11):3338-44.
11. Bucholz RW, Heckman JD, Court-Brown C, eds. Rockwood Green’s Fractures in adults. 6th edn. New York, USA: Lipincott William & Wilkin’s;2006.
12. Matta JM. Fractures of the acetabulum: accuracy of reduction and clinical results in patients operatively treated within three weeks after injury. J Bone Joint Surg. 1996;78A:1632–1644.
13. Mayo KA. Open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the acetabulum: results in 163 fractures. Clin Orthop. 1994;305:31–37.

How to Cite this article: Vaishya R, Vijay V, Agarwal AK, Vaish A. Where Do We Need More Than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First? Trauma International Jan-Apr 2017;3(1):10-13.
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Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

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Iliofemoral Approach to Acetabulum

Author: Ravi Gupta [1], Ashwani Soni [1]

Abstract

Introduction

Skin incision

Superficial dissection

Osteotomy of ASIS

(Abstract) (Full Text HTML) (Download PDF)

Where Do We Need More than One Approach for Acetabular Fractures and Which One First?

Author: Raju Vaishya [1], Vipul Vijay [1], Amit K Agarwal [1], Abhishek Vaish [2]

Abstract

Introduction

Review

Limitations of a Single Approach

Decision making

Which approach first?

Literature review

References

(Abstract) (Full Text HTM L) (Download PDF)

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