PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION FOR ACETABULAR FRACTURE IN A 60-YEAR-OLD MALE: A CASE REPORT

Acetabular fracture is a challenging and an uncommon fracture for radiologist and orthopaedics. The prevalence rate for young patients is 80% in road traffic accidents, with an incidence of 3 patients/ 1,00,000/ year. This case report showcases the recovery of 60-year-old male farmer by occupation suffering from acetabular fracture following a history of a road traffic accident and a medical history of diabetes following open reduction internal fixation with acetabular plate and screw. The patient underwent a structured physiotherapy exercise protocol for 2 weeks. On examination, the active range of motion of the affected side hip flexion was 10 degrees and that of hip abduction was 20 degrees, while that of knee flexion was 20 degrees in the supine position. The range of motion of the affected side ankle was in a normal, functional range of motion. This was assessed using a goniometer. Pain was assessed using a numerical pain rating scale, where the patient rated 4 out of 10 during movement and 1 out of 10 at rest.

Furthermore, 3D CT of the pelvis with both hip joints showed a communated displaced fracture in the posterior column of left acetabulum. Two bony fragments measuring 10x4mm and 7x3.7mm were noted in the left hip joint space.

The positive result of this case highlights the significance of incorporating physiotherapy into the postoperative treatment of patients with diabetes and fractures. This helps improve functional recovery and decreases the likelihood of long-term disability.