Several methods have been used for proximal humeral reconstruction following tumour resection. None of these modalities allow the patient to regain his normal shoulder range of motion. Moreover, every modality has its advantages and disadvantages. The aim of this study was to compare the functional outcome of 2 reconstructive modalities that we are using in our institution for proximal humeral reconstruction; endoprosthesis and shoulder arthrodesis using a vascularised autograft This study included 48 patients diagnosed with malignant or benign aggressive tumours that required resection of their proximal humerus. They were divided into 2 groups according to the method of reconstruction. Group 1 included 22 patients with an average age of 20 years were reconstructed by shoulder arthrodesis using a free vascularised fibular graft (6) or a pedicled scapular crest graft (16). Group 2 included 26 patients with an average age of 26 years were reconstructed with an endoprosthesis. In group 1 the average follow up period was 88 months (range 12 to 184 months). The average functional outcome (according to the MSTS scoring system) was 25 points (range 19 – 28). The average abduction and forward flexion range of motion (scapulothoracic) was 40 degrees (range 20 -60). Complications included failed fixation (2), non union (1), infection (1) and temporary radial nerve palsy (2). In group 2 the average follow up period was 36 months (range 12 – 110). The average functional outcome was 24 points (range 20 – 27). The average abduction and forward flexion range of motion was 40 (range 30 –70). Complications included sublaxation (2), loosening (1) and infection (1). Reconstruction of the proximal humerus by arthrodesis or endoprosthesis yield similar functional outcome. Although endoprosthesis is a much more expensive modality, it does not provide any superior functional outcome over shoulder arthrodesis.
To compare the functional outcome of proximal femoral reconstruction using endoprosthetic replacement and hip arthrodesis using a vascularised fibular graft The study included thirty-five patients who had proximal femoral reconstruction following resection of a malignant bone tumour. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the reconstructive modality used. Group 1 (15 patients) reconstructed by hip arthrodesis using a vascularised fibular graft. Group 2 (20 patients) reconstructed by endoprosthesis. The mean age of group I was 14.9 years (range, 7-25). 8 patients had Ewing's sarcoma, 5 osteogenic sarcoma, and 2 chondrosarcoma. In group 2, the mean age was 35 years (range, 14-61). Eight patients had osteogenic sarcoma, 2 chondrosarcoma, 2 Ewing's sarcoma, 1 lymphoma, 1 MFH, 1 synovial sarcoma, 1 parosteal osteosarcoma, and 4 metastatic carcinomas.Aim
Material and Methods
Fifteen patients (11 males, 4 females) with a median age of 16 years (range, 7–25) were treated in our centre by intra-articular resection of the proximal femur, and hip arthrodesis using a vascularized fibular graft. Eight patients had Ewing’s sarcoma, 5 osteogenic sarcoma, and 2 chondrosarcoma. After a mean follow up of 58.2 months, 13 patients were alive with no evidence of disease. All fibular grafts united at a mean time of 7.6 months (range, 7–9 months). Four patients had stress fractures of the vascularized fibular graft, all healed after a mean period of 6.5 weeks. Failure of the fixation system occurred in two patients. Deep infection developed in one case which necessitated plate removal. Three of these patients with complications underwent a second procedure, giving a re-operation rate of 20%. The mean MSTS functional score was 85.9% at the time of the latest follow-up. We conclude that hip arthrodesis using a vascularized fibular graft is a viable alternative to endoprosthetic replacement after proximal femoral resections. It should be considered as an effective and durable reconstructive technique in young patients with high physical demands.
