Der Unfallchirurg
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Each acetabular fracture means a huge intellectual and a demanding technical challenge for the surgeon on charge. Because the hip joint is situated within a complex three-dimensional structure the diagnostics of its lesions are difficult. Three conventional X-ray views enable the recognition of a specific fracture type, computertomographic cuts give a detailed view on the type and the severity of the cartilage lesions, threedimensional reconstructions make a clear spatial imaging of the fracture configuration possible. ⋯ When operated on quickly, open reduction and internal fixation can also give gratifying results. Alternative methods as primary or secondary total hip arthroplasty are at least as demanding for the patient and are combined with a high percentage of loosening of the acetabular component. The rarity and complexity of acetabular fractures asks for a specific teaching and learning with a experienced acetabular surgeon.
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There are 2 types of a combined tibia fracture and ankle injury: in Type I the tibia fracture extends directly into the ankle joint, in Type II the tibia fracture goes along with a fracture of the fibula and disruption of the fibular-tibial syndesmosis. This type of fracture must be distinguished from a pilon tibiale fracture. The typical mechanism for this combined tibia and ankle injury is the indirect torsional trauma with pronation-eversion. ⋯ The attention should be focused to the ankle joint in any spiral fractures of the distal tibia after indirect trauma, especially with a proximal fibular fracture or an intact fibula. Additional X-ray examination of the ankle joint is recommended during internal fixation of the tibia. Posttraumatic arthrosis of the ankle joint can be prevented by diagnosis and adequate anatomical reconstruction of the additional ankle joint injury.