Pipkin type III femoral head fracture–dislocation combined with complicated acetabular fracture

RATIONALE Pipkin III fracture, which is characterized by high risk of avascular necrosis of the femoral head, is extremely rare. It is more difficult to treat and has a worse prognosis when accompanied with severe acetabular fractures. Few studies show that both Pipkin type III femoral head fracture-dislocation and complicated acetabular fracture presented in one patient. PATIENT CONCERNS A 34-year-old male suffered a terrible traffic accident with a serious damage to the left side when he was sitting in the car's cockpit. Pelvic radiograph and 3-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography revealed characteristics of fractures before the emergency operation. DIAGNOSIS Pipkin III fractures combined with complicated acetabular fracture. INTERVENTIONS Firstly, we used combined anterior and posterior approach for treatment to fix the femoral head fractures. Then, we completed anatomical reduction of fractures with countersunk head screw, hollow screw, and reconstruction plate. OUTCOMES At the 12-months follow-up, the patient could walk freely and perform activities of daily living without necrosis of femoral head and heterotopic ossification. LESSONS Although there are serious complications in Pipkin III fractures combined with complicated acetabular fracture, early surgical treatment with appropriate approach and fixation could get satisfactory results.