1. In approximately 75 per cent of patients who have severe fractures of the inner acetabular wall and are poor surgical risks because of associated injuries or other reasons, a satisfactory result may be anticipated after closed treatment. Even fractures which remain unreduced may not cause pain and significant disability for many years.
2. The displaced comminuted inner wall of the acetabulum has a remarkable capacity to re-form and re-establish a functionally satisfactory joint.
3. Displaced non-comminuted fractures with an intact femoral head may in some carefully selected instances be suitable for open reduction and internal fixation.
4. Gross interposed bone fragments and fracture of the femoral head may require a cup arthroplasty.
5. Unsatisfactory results after closed treatment may be salvaged by delayed, carefully selected open procedures.
6. Serupulous avoidance of early weight-bearing is essential in all forms of treatment of fractures involving the inner acetabular wall.