Computer-assisted percutaneous fixation of acetabular fractures and pelvic ring disruptions

The complex anatomy of the pelvis contains many vital anatomic structures. In the past, this anatomic complexity has necessitated wide surgical exposures for internal fixation of traumatic disruptions of the pelvis and acetabulum. The availability of computer-assisted surgical technology has made it possible to decrease the invasiveness of internal fixation procedures about the pelvis. Optically tracked surgical instruments can be used to pass cannulated screws percutaneously according to precise preoperative plans, using patient-specific anatomy derived from computed tomography scans. This technique has broad potential for both pure percutaneous procedures and open procedures as well.