Early weight bearing in acetabular and pelvic fractures

The incidence of pelvic and acetabular fractures is increasing during the years, counting 37 pelvic fractures per 100000 people annually. No weight bearing or toe touch weight bearing are usually chosen in the initial management to allow fracture and ligamentous healing and avoid fracture displacement and fixation failure. On the other hand, early weight bearing may stimulate fracture healing and allow prompt functional recovery, faster return to work and recreational activities and reduce complications linked to late rehabilitation.  Aim of the study is to review the literature about weight bearing indications for pelvic and acetabular fractures to highlight clinical and biomechanical evidence supporting early weight bearing.