The anatomical structures adjacent to fourteen acetabula were studied to
identify structures that are at risk from acetabular screws. There were six
embalmed acetabula, four acetabula from two fresh autopsy specimens, and
four acetabula that were studied during two gynecological operations.
Models were constructed to show where these screws can penetrate. Medially
placed screws either penetrated or came dangerously close to the external
iliac vein; the obturator artery, nerve, and vein; and tributaries of the
internal iliac vein. To avoid injury to the medial vascular structures,
screws should not be placed in the anterosuperior quadrant of the
acetabulum.