Abstract
To reduce the disability after hip disarticulation customised endoprostheses have been used in our unit to preserve a proximal femoral above knee amputation stump. This procedure involves preservation of a musculocutaneous flap and insertion of a customised stump prosthesis that articulates with the acetabulum. This procedure has been performed not only for primary malignancy but also in the reconstructive setting. Six patients have undergone the above procedure with a good functional outcome-allowing mobilisation with an appropriate orthosis. We will discuss the complications of such a procedure that includes disassociation of the femoral head from the customised prosthesis.
We present the technique as a useful adjunct not only in the treatment of large proximal femoral tumours but also in the end stage reconstructive setting.
Correspondence should be addressed to BOOS at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35 - 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
