Internal fracture fixation using the Stoppa approach in pelvic ring and acetabular fractures: technical aspects and operative results.

Background: The ilioinguinal approach is well established for the treatment of pelvic fractures. As an alternative, the modified Stoppa approach can be used to expose pelvic and acetabular fractures. We describe our experience with this approach in patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures with respect to fracture reduction, technical aspects, and the incidence of intra- and postoperative complications.

Methods: This retrospective study describes a series of 25 consecutive patients where a modified Stoppa approach was used for pelvic or acetabular fracture fixation.

Results: Fifteen patients with acetabular fractures, six patients with a pelvic ring injury not involving the acetabular joint and four patients with a combined fracture were operated through a Stoppa approach. Nine patients had a total of 13 complications, none of which required reoperation. Anatomic or satisfactory reduction was achieved in 95% of the acetabular fractures. Pelvic ring fractures had an anatomic (displacement <1 cm) postoperative result in all 10 cases.

Conclusion: The modified Stoppa approach allows an adequate exposure and good postoperative results for treatment of pelvic ring fractures and acetabular fractures that are eligible for an anterior approach.