Ilioinguinal Approach to the Hip Joint

Modification of the Smith-Peterson iliofemoral

  • allows exposure of the acetabulum & pelvis distal to the iliopectineal eminence
  • allows access to the inner ilium, inner surface of the true pelvis & SIJ
  • can also expose outer surface of ilium by releasing the abductors but compromises blood supply
  • HO not usu seen unless release abductors
  • does not allow access to hip joint unless acetabular Fracture

Indications

  • pelvic fracture of anterior call or anterior column
  • T type acetabular fractures
  • periacetabular osteotomies

Position

  • floppy lateral 0-30°
  • drape to include contralat iliac crest
  • IDC

Incision

  • 2 limbs
  • medial limb – 2-3cm above symphysis pubis to ASIS
  • lateral limb – extends fro ASIS to beyond the Gluteus Medius tubercle of the iliac crest

Dissections

  • start lateral & raise extension Oblique off iliac crest
  • raise iliacus to expose SIJ
  • medial limb
  • extension oblique divide along & proximal to inguinal ligament to the extension inguinal ring
  • spermatic cord [round ligament in F] is isolated & retracted medially
  • inguinal canal is opened by opening the lower flap of extension oblique aponeurosis
  • inferior epigastric a crossess the floor of the inguinal canal at the medial border of the deep inguinal ring & requires ligation
  • LFCN needs to be identified & protected or transected transversalis fascia can then be incised [ leave flap for reattachment
  • symphysis can be exposed by releasing rectus
  • iliopectineal fascia is the key to access from the false to the true pelvis
  • lateral to it is the femoral nerve
  • medial to it is the extension iliac vessels
  • use penrose drain around iliopsoas & femoral nerve
  • use 2nd drain around extension iliac vessels
  • exposure is then gained between these 3 mobile tissue envelopes
  • retropubic space can be exposed by release of rectus