Normal acetabular anatomy for acetabular fracture assessment: CT and plain film correlation.

The computed tomographic (CT) and conventional radiographic appearances of the acetabulum are correlated for assessment of acetabular fractures according to the Judet and Letournel classification system, a system widely used by orthopedic surgeons performing fracture reduction and external fixation of the acetabulum. A desiccated pelvis was marked along the acetabular borders with lead solder, and anteroposterior (AP) and oblique radiographs were obtained. The solder was then replaced by barium-impregnated string, and the acetabulum was scanned by CT. Radiographic-CT correlations of acetabular landmarks should aid the orthopedist by providing a useful interpretation of acetabular fractures according to the Judet and Letournel system.