Periprosthetic fractures of the acetabulum associated with a total hip arthroplasty.

Periprosthetic fractures of the acetabulum that occur in association with a total hip arthroplasty are unusual injuries that present several challenges to successful management. As the number of total hip arthroplasties performed each year increases along with the number of patients with severe bone loss who require revision surgery, periprosthetic fractures of the acetabulum are becoming more prevalent. However, there is little information available to guide the orthopaedic surgeon in the management of these injuries. A comprehensive classification of these injuries is presented that is useful for guiding the management of these complex problems.