Early experience of operative treatment of pelvic and acetabular fractures at a university teaching hospital in Kenya

Abstract

Background: There is a large number of patients who sustain pelvic and acetabular fractures in Kenya. A number of these patients have undergone internal fixation at our institution but there is no local data to show the results of such treatment.

Objective: To review early post-operative results of pelvic and acetabular fracture intern al fixation.

Design: Retrospective case series.

Methods: Case records and X-rays of all the patients who had undergone internal fixation of their pelvic and acetabular fractures over a two year period were reviewed. Information regarding operative time, postoperative complications and wound healing, level of pain, function and return to work was recorded. X-ray were reviewed for reduction, bone healing, hetero-topic ossification and avascular necrosis for acetabular fractures.

Results: Over a period of 2 years the author has carried out 11 pelvic and acetabular reconstructions. The reconstructions took a significant amount of time due to setting up, image intensifier fluoroscopy, lack of appropriate equipment for fracture reduction and fixation. Nine of the patients had a good result. Ten of the patients had returned to their previous work.

Conclusion: Internal fixation of pelvic and acetabular fractures leads to good patient outcomes. There is, however, need to invest in facilities to accomplish the fixations timeously and in special training for the surgeons to carry out the procedures safely.

Keywords: Pelvic and acetabular fractures, Operative treatment, Outcome