Abstract
Fractures of the acetabulum are among the most complex fractures involving the hip joint and pose a challenge for orthopedic trauma surgeons. The first known descriptions of surgical fixation of acetabular fractures were published in 1943. In 1964, R. Judet, J. Judet, and E. Letournel published a landmark article describing the classification system and surgical approaches for treating acetabular fractures. These teachings had a significant impact on clinical outcomes after surgical fixation of acetabular fractures. In 1980, Letournel demonstrated 80% good to excellent results, and in 2012, Matta demonstrated a 79% survival rate after surgical fixation of the acetabulum. Letournel finally proved that anatomical reduction of the fracture is the most influential factor predicting the clinical course. Numerous achievements have been made in pelvic and acetabular surgery. However, despite these accomplishments, surgeons are still striving to improve the outcomes of surgical treatment for acetabular fractures. Keywords: acetabulum, fracture, osteosynthesis, history.