Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Acetabulum Fractures


The above image is a surface-rendering 3D CT scan view laterally with the right hemipelvis and left femur removed demonstrating a transverse fracture as well as a displaced and comminuted posterior wall fracture fragment.
Fractures of the acetabulum often occur in automobile or motorcycle accidents, falls, or industrial accidents, when a strong force pushes the head of the femur through the acetabulum.
When these fractures occur they disrupt the smooth surface of the hip joint as well as the fit of the femoral head into the acetabulum and usually require surgery to repair.
The surgical procedure will often include screws and or plates fixated to the damaged areas to hold the fragments in position for healing. Surgical complications can include wound infection and nerve damage, however they are rare. Post operative patients will remain in the hospital to be monitored for pain, infection, and deep vein thrombosis which could lead to a pulmonary embolism.

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