To evaluate the results of limited open reduction and screw fixation of acetabular fractures.

Six acetabular fractures were treated with fluoroscopic guided screw fixation. The mean age was 46 years old and mean follow-up period was 18 months. There were 3 anterior column fractures, 2 transverse fractures and 1 both column fracture. Anterior column screw fixation was used in 5 cases and posterior column fixation in 1 case. Limited ilioinguinal approach was used in 4 cases and percutaneous screw fixation in 2 cases.

The mean union time was 16.6 weeks. The postoperative radiographic results revealed 2 cases with an anatomic reduction and 4 cases with an imperfect reduction. The clinical results showed 1 case with excellent, 4 cases with good and 1 case with fair. Regarding complication, there was 1 case of SI joint penestration without clinical symptoms.

Limited open reduction and screw fixation can be a useful alternative treatment for acetabular fractures in patients with minimally displaced fracture, severe multisystem trauma and soft tissue injury not suitable to traditional treatment.