Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis on anterior pelvic ring injury and anterior column acetabular fracture.

INTRODUCTION

In performing surgery for fractures of the pelvis and acetabulum, various surgical approaches have been introduced with their own advantages and drawbacks. The extensile nature of ilioinguinal approach gives excellent exposure but was related to wound healing problems. Modified stoppa has a higher difficulty and poses a risk for neurovascular injury. In this study, we elaborate our experience using the Modified Stoppa approach with additional lateral window while adding few modifications to simplify the procedure and facilitate future implant removal.

METHODS

A prospective-retrospective cohort involving 30 anterior pelvic ring and/or anterior column acetabulum fracture patients were conducted from 2012-2016. Fifteen cases were prospectively treated using the modified approach since 2014, while the remaining fifteen cases that were treated using Ilioinguinal approach were retrospectively reviewed. Intraoperative parameters such as blood loss, duration of surgery, quality of reduction (Matta) and postoperative functional outcome (Majeed and Hannover score) at 12 months period were recorded and evaluated by a blinded reviewer.

RESULT

There were no significant differences between the two groups in mean age, sex and fracture type. The mean blood loss in the MIPO group were 325 ± 225 mL versus 710.67 ± 384.51 mL in the control group (p = 0.002). Duration of surgery were 149.33 ± 91.92 minutes in MIPO group versus 235.71 ± 65.79 minutes in ilioinguinal group (p = 0.014). There were no significant differences noted between the two groups in the quality of reduction and postoperative functional outcome, either by using Majeed or Hannover pelvic score. No complications were found after a 12-months follow up period. Two modified cases already had their implant removed and during the procedure, fibrotic tissue were minimal making the implant removal was less complicated and easier.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified stoppa and lateral window technique can be used as a safe and effective alternative approach for anterior pelvic ring fracture and/or anterior column acetabulum fracture. This approach decreased the duration of surgery and blood loss without compromising the quality of reduction and functional outcome in patients.