RESUMEN
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the early clinical effects of total hip arthroplasty(THA) for the treatment of old acetabular fractures.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From January 2007 to June 2010, thirteen patients with old acetabular fractures were reviewed, including 10 males and 3 females. Ten patients were treated with internal fixation and conservative treatment had been used in three patients. The average Harris Hip Score was used to evaluate therapeutic effects.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>After operation, all thirteen patients were followed up for one year. Hip X-ray films were taken and prosthesis loosening was not seen on any of the films at the 1st year after operation. The Harris Hip Score improved from preoperative (37.19 +/- 20.12) to postoperative (83.38 +/- 3.33), there was statistically significant difference.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>For reasons of malunion or failure of internal fixation, large and various bone defect, it's difficult to reach the anatomical reduction. THA is a good treatment method, but it needs rich skills and experience compared with ordinary operation.</p>