The extended ilioinguinal approach for specific both column fractures.

The surgical approach for exposure of an acetabular fracture is determined by Letournel's fracture classification. Both column fractures typically can be treated through the ilioinguinal approach. If a fracture extends posteriorly to involve the sacroiliac joint or the sciatic buttress, exposure through the ilioinguinal approach can be quite difficult and the extended iliofemoral approach is often recommended. The authors have combined the ilioinguinal and the posterior approach to the sacroiliac joint into one incision termed the extended ilioinguinal approach. Six patients were treated by this approach. The approach allows improved visualization and should prevent some morbidity usually associated with the extended iliofemoral approach. Perfect or near perfect reductions were achieved in all cases. The extended ilioinguinal approach can be useful when treating both column fractures extending posteriorly to involve the sacroiliac joint or the sciatic buttress.