Selection of operative approach for acetabular fracture

Acetabulum fracture, the inner fracture of the joint, has be en divided into 10 kinds. Because acetabulum is an irregular body, no single ope ration approach can solve all kinds of acetabular fracture. Appropriate selectio n of the operative approach according to the type of fracture is very important. Kocher-Langenbeck approach, extended-iliofemoral approach and ilioinguinal ap proach are often used in clinic now. Because of its complicated procedures and m any complications resulting from the approach, the application of extended-ilio femoral approach is decreasing. Because of its predominant advantage and improve ment of the operation techniques, the use of ilioinguinal approach is obviously increasing in proportion. Since the united approach can reveal clearly so that i t facilitates reduction and internal fixation, it is recommended by the surgeons at home and abroad.