What is an acetabular fracture?

What is an acetabular fracture?

An acetabular fracture is a break in your hip socket. Your hip is a “ball-and-socket” joint. Your acetabulum, which is part of your pelvis, forms the socket. Your femoral head, which is the upper end of your femur (thigh bone), forms the ball. The ball-and-socket joint allows movement between your thigh bone and your pelvis. This joint is what lets you walk.

An acetabular fracture can cause a significant loss of motion and function. Acetabular fractures are much less common than most hip fractures. Most hip fractures are in the upper femur or femoral head.