Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether duration of surgery correlates with the survival and final outcome of the patient with metastatic bone disease.
Between 1999 and 2002, 23 consecutive patients with impending or complete pathological fractures of the femur due to metastatic bone disease caused by variety of malignancies or an unknown primary were reviewed. These fractures were treated with intramedullary fixation in the form of long intramedullary hip screw, long Gamma nail or AO nail. These patients were followed up clinically and radiologically until death from the primary disease.
The results obtained demonstrate a mean survival time between 9 days to 12 months. Pain relief was achieved in 90% patients. Ambulatory status was improved in 47% patients. The postoperative course was complicated by four technical and five systemic complications. Intramedullary nailing is a safe and effective method in the treatment of metastatic bone disease. It provides good functional result with pain relief and improved mobility. The operating time does not predictably correlate with the survival and final outcome of the patient.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Roger Tillman. Correspondence should be addressed to BOOS at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
