Evaluation of Direct Infrapectineal Plating in Quadrilateral Plate Acetabular Fractures

Overview

This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of direct infrapectineal plate fixation in patients with quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures. A total of 25 adult patients with acute fractures were enrolled between 2021 and 2024 at a university-affiliated hospital. All patients underwent surgical fixation through the ilioinguinal approach. Radiological results were assessed using the Matta scoring system, and functional outcomes were evaluated using the Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scoring system. The study further assessed complication rates, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay.

Quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures are complex injuries that present challenges in achieving stable fixation due to their anatomical location and high risk of medial displacement. The direct infrapectineal plate, applied via the ilioinguinal approach, offers a biomechanically stable construct for buttressing the medial acetabular wall. This prospective cohort study enrolled 25 patients aged 18-64 years with acute quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures between January 2021 and January 2024. Patients with pathological fractures, pre-existing ipsilateral hip disease, or delayed presentation (\>4 weeks) were excluded. The surgical procedure involved direct infrapectineal plating through the ilioinguinal approach. Radiological outcomes were measured using the Matta scoring system, and functional results were assessed with the Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scoring system at a mean follow-up of 14.7 months. Secondary measures included operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, and complication profile. Preliminary results showed that anatomical reduction was achieved in 64% of patients, with excellent or good functional results in 68%. The complication rate was low, with only one case of deep infection requiring implant removal. The study concludes that infrapectineal plating provides stable fixation with favorable functional and radiological outcomes for quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures.