Delayed fixation of neglected acetabular fractures: clinical challenges and mid-term outcomes of a prospective case series

This study represents one of the largest prospective series on neglected acetabular fractures with midterm follow-up. Despite delayed presentation, ORIF achieved satisfactory anatomical and functional results in most cases. Early surgical intervention within the neglected window was associated with superior outcomes, while subgroup analysis highlighted a gradual adverse effect of increasing delay. These findings underscore the importance of individualized surgical strategies, meticulous planning, and experienced surgical execution in optimizing results for this challenging patient population.