Proximal humeral osteoarticular allografts: technique,pearls and pitfalls,outcomes

Allograft transplantation is a biologic reconstruction option for massive bone defects after resection of bone sarcomas. This type of reconstruction not only restores bone stock but it also allows us to reconstruct the joint anatomically. These factors are a major concern, especially in a young and active population.We are describing indications, surgical techniques, pearls and pitfalls, and outcomes of proximal humeral osteoarticular allografts, done at present time in our institution.We found that allograft fractures and articular complications, as epiphyseal resorption and subchondral fracture, are the main complications observed in proximal humerus osteoarticular allograft reconstructions. Nevertheless, only fractures need a reconstruction revision. Joint complications may adversely affect the limb function, but for this reason, an allograft revision is rarely performed.     

Intercalary femur and tibia segmental allografts provide an acceptable alternative in reconstructing tumor resections

Intercalary femur and tibia segmental allografts were implanted in 59 consecutive patients after segmental resection-52 for malignant and seven for benign aggressive bone tumors. The patients were followed up for an average of 5 years. Allograft survival was determined with the Kaplan-Meier method. Infection, fracture, and nonunion rates were determined. The overall 5-year survivorship for the 59 intercalary allografts was 79%, and we found no significant differences between allograft survival in patients receiving or not receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. Infection and fracture rates were 5% and 7% respectively. From 118 host-donor junctions, 11 did not initially heal (9%). The nonunion rate (10 of 69 osteotomies) for diaphyseal junctions was higher than the rate (one of 49 osteotomies) for metaphyseal junctions. Although some patients required reoperations because of allograft complications, it seems that the use of intercalary allograft clearly has a place in the reconstruction of a segmental defect created by the resection of a tumor in the diaphyseal and /or metaphyseal portion of the femur or tibia.     

Case Report: Common Femoral Artery Ligation after Sarcoma Resection in an Infant

Background  

Vascular reconstruction in infants constitutes a surgical challenge and is indicated frequently for acute occlusions. With the presence of a subacute vascular occlusion, including that produced by tumor resection, collateral circulation develops quickly. Thus a surgeon can consider tumor and vessel resection, without the need for vascular reconstruction.     

Intercalary Femur Allografts Are an Acceptable Alternative After Tumor Resection

Background  

With the improved survival for patients with malignant bone tumors, there is a trend to reconstruct defects using biologic techniques. While the use of an intercalary allograft is an option, the procedures are technically demanding and it is unclear whether the complication rates and survival are similar to other approaches.     

Clinical and functional outcomes of tibial intercalary allografts after tumor resection

Reconstruction after intercalary resection of the tibia is demanding due to subcutaneous location, poor vascularity of the tibia, and high infection rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the survivorship, complications, and functional outcome of intercalary tibial allograft reconstructions following tumor resections. Intercalary tibia segmental allografts were implanted in 26 consecutive patients after segmental resections. Patients were followed for an average of 6 years. Allograft survival was determined with the Kaplan-Meier method. Patient function was evaluated with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring system. Survivorship was 84% (95% confidence interval [CI], 98%-70%) at 5 years and 79% (95% CI, 63%-95%) at 10 years. Allografts were removed in 5 patients due to 3 infections and 2 local recurrences. Two patients showed diaphyseal nonunion, and 3 patients underwent an incomplete fracture; no allografts were removed in these patients. Average MSTS functional score was 29 points (range, 27-30 points). Despite the incidence of complications, this analysis showed an acceptable survivor-ship with excellent functional scores. The use of intercalary allograft has a place in the reconstruction of a segmental defect created by the resection of a tumor in the diaphyseal or metaphyseal portion of the tibia.     

Intraoperative ultrasound assistance for excision of impalpable musculoskeletal soft tissue tumors

Intraoperative ultrasonography is a useful tool for the detection and extirpation of liver metastases, breast masses, and melanoma. However, the efficacy of this technology in intraoperative localization and resection of small soft tissue tumors has not been addressed. The purpose of this study is to report on the efficacy of intraoperative ultrasound assistance in excising impalpable musculoskeletal soft tissue tumors. Twenty-two soft tissue tumors <3 cm (range, 0.7-3 cm) were resected with intraoperative ultrasound assistance. All tumors were localized in the deep panniculus, fascia, or muscle. Surgical time and length of incisions was recorded in all the cases. Intra- and postoperative reregistration was made to confirm the tumor resection. Ultrasound assistance was successful in obtaining an accurate localization in all treated cases. Mean surgical time was 30 minutes (range, 13-87 minutes). Average incision length was 5.7 cm (range, 2.5-10.6 cm). Reregistration allowed intraoperative confirmation of the adequacy of the excision. The procedure allowed recognized and excised additional nodules not previously diagnosed in 3 cases. Postoperative echography done in all patients confirmed complete extirpation of the tumors, and histopathology confirmed adequate margins obtained. Intraoperative ultrasound can be used as an efficient tool to localize and treat impalpable small soft tissue tumors.