Operative management of metastases to the pelvis and acetabulum

Bone metastases to the acetabulum and pelvis can be a devastating and debilitating problem. In certain patients, operative reconstruction of the involved hip can lead to maintenance of independence, pain control, and an increase in the overall quality of life for their remaining life span. These procedures are technically challenging and are associated with a higher complication rate than that for patients having surgery for nonneoplastic disease. They are probably best performed by surgeons with specific training and expertise in tumor surgery and acetabular reconstruction. With proper patient selection, appropriate component use, and competent surgical technique, good-to-excellent results can be obtained.