The Post-operative Outcome of Stoppa Approach in the Treatment of Anterior Column Acetabular Fractures

Background: Choosing the proper approach to surgical treatment of various types of acetabular fractures can play an important role in minimizing adverse outcomes during and after surgery. In the present study, we described our experience on the outcome of Stoppa approach in anterior column acetabular fractures. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 40 patients with acetabular anterior column fractures that had undergone surgery with Stoppa approach. The study information, Harris Hip Score (HHS), and pre- and post-operative radiographic findings were collected by reviewing the hospital recorded files. Results: HHSs of 80 to 100 were achieved in 75.0% of patients. Completed (anatomic reduction less than 2 mm) displacement reduction was found in 97.5%. 2 mg/dl decreased serum level of hemoglobin (Hb) was found in 75.0%, leading to blood transfusion in 60% of subjects. Regarding post-procedural complications, the common event was infection in 15.0%, followed by degenerative joint disease (DJD) in 15.0%. The post-operative complications were similar in men and women, but were significantly higher in patientsolder than 50 years than the younger patients. Conclusion: Stoppa approach is associated with high success rate and the occurrence of rare and tolerable major complications.