Acetabulum fractures: classification and management

Author summary

A classification inclusive of all forms of acetabular fracture was sought to aid in determining the best surgical approach. Understanding of the pathologic anatomy may be achieved through four x-ray views, allowing determination of the optimal approach for fixation of the fracture with safety and ease. Perfect anatomical reduction with surgery is the goal but on occasion the conservative approach may give a satisfactory clinical outcome. The combined surgical experience of over 22 years of Emile Letournel and Robert Judet with a series of patients is presented in connection with the development of the classification system and evolution of surgical approaches.