Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of application of a 3D-printed megaprosthesis with hemiarthroplasty design for defects of the distal humerus or proximal ulna following tumour resection. Methods. From June 2018 to January 2020, 13 patients with aggressive or malignant tumours involving the distal humerus (n = 8) or proximal ulna (n = 5) were treated by en bloc resection and reconstruction with a 3D-printed megaprosthesis with hemiarthroplasty, designed in our centre. In this paper, we summarize the baseline and operative data, oncological outcome, complication profiles, and functional status of these patients. Results. Preparation of the prosthesis was a mean of 8.0 days (SD 1.5), during which time no patients experienced tumour progression. The mean operating time and intraoperative blood loss were 158.1 minutes (SD 67.6) and 176.9 ml (SD 187.8), respectively. All of the prostheses were implanted successfully. During a mean follow-up of 25.7 months (SD 7.8), no patients died, but four had complications (two superficial wound problems, one temporary palsy of radial nerve, and one dislocation). No aseptic loosening, structural failure, infection, heterotopic ossification, or degenerative arthritis was seen in this study. The mean flexion of the elbow was 119.6° (SD 15.9°) and the mean extension lag was 11.9° (SD 13.8°). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society 93 score and Mayo Elbow Performance Score were 28.4 (SD 0.9) and 97.7 (SD 4.4), respectively. Conclusion. The custom-made, 3D-printed megaprosthesis with hemiarthroplasty is a feasible option for functional reconstruction after resection of a tumour in the distal humerus or proximal ulna. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(6):747–757

Aims. The proximal tibia (PT) is the anatomical site most frequently affected by primary bone tumours after the distal femur. Reconstruction of the PT remains challenging because of the poor soft-tissue cover and the need to reconstruct the extensor mechanism. Reconstructive techniques include implantation of massive endoprosthesis (megaprosthesis), osteoarticular allografts (OAs), or allograft-prosthesis composites (APCs). Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of clinical data relating to patients who underwent proximal tibial arthroplasty in our regional bone tumour centre from 2010 to 2018. Results. A total of 76 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Mean age at surgery was 43.2 years (12 to 86 (SD 21)). The mean follow-up period was 60.1 months (5.4 to 353). In total 21 failures were identified, giving an overall failure rate of 27.6%. Prosthesis survival at five years was 75.5%, and at ten years was 59%. At last follow-up, mean knee flexion was 89.8° (SD 36°) with a mean extensor lag of 18.1° (SD 24°). In univariate analysis, factors associated with better survival of the prosthesis were a malignant or metastatic cancer diagnosis (versus benign), with a five- and ten-year survival of 78.9% and 65.7% versus 37.5% (p = 0.045), while in-hospital length of stay longer than nine days was also associated with better prognosis with five- and ten-year survival rates at 84% and 84% versus 60% and 16% (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, only in-hospital length of stay was associated with longer survival (hazard ratio (HR) 0.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08 to 0.66). Conclusion. We have shown that proximal tibial arthroplasty with endoprosthesis is a safe and reliable method for reconstruction in patients treated for orthopaedic oncological conditions. Either modular or custom implants in this series performed well. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(9):733–740

Aims

The ulna is an extremely rare location for primary bone tumours of the elbow in paediatrics. Although several reconstruction options are available, the optimal reconstruction method is still unknown due to the rarity of proximal ulna tumours. In this study, we report the outcomes of osteoarticular ulna allograft for the reconstruction of proximal ulna tumours.

Aims

Internal hemipelvectomy without reconstruction of the pelvis is a viable treatment for pelvic sarcoma; however, the time it takes to return to excellent function is quite variable. Some patients require greater time and rehabilitation than others. To determine if psoas muscle recovery is associated with changes in ambulatory function, we retrospectively evaluated psoas muscle size and limb-length discrepancy (LLD) before and after treatment and their correlation with objective functional outcomes.

Aims

The epiphyseal approach to a chondroblastoma of the intercondylar notch of a child’s distal femur does not provide adequate exposure, thereby necessitating the removal of a substantial amount of unaffected bone to expose the lesion. In this study, we compared the functional outcomes, local recurrence, and surgical complications of treating a chondroblastoma of the distal femoral epiphysis by either an intercondylar or an epiphyseal approach.

Aims

Intra-articular (IA) tumours around the knee are treated with extra-articular (EA) resection, which is associated with poor functional outcomes. We aim to evaluate the accuracy of MRI in predicting IA involvement around the knee.

Aims

The aim of this study was to report the patterns of symptoms and insufficiency fractures in patients with tumour-induced osteomalacia (TIO) to allow the early diagnosis of this rare condition.

Aims

The scapula is a rare site for a primary bone tumour. Only a small number of series have studied patient outcomes after treatment. Previous studies have shown a high rate of recurrence, with functional outcomes determined by the preservation of the glenohumeral joint and deltoid. The purpose of the current study was to report the outcome of patients who had undergone tumour resection that included the scapula.

Aims

Dislocation of the hip remains a major complication after periacetabular tumour resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction. The position of the acetabular component is an important modifiable factor for surgeons in determining the risk of postoperative dislocation. We investigated the significance of horizontal, vertical, and sagittal displacement of the hip centre of rotation (COR) on postoperative dislocation using a CT-based 3D model, as well as other potential risk factors for dislocation.

Aims

Osteoarticular reconstruction of the distal femur in childhood has the advantage of preserving the tibial physis. However, due to the small size of the distal femur, matching the host bone with an osteoarticular allograft is challenging. In this study, we compared the outcomes and complications of a resurfaced allograft-prosthesis composite (rAPC) with those of an osteoarticular allograft to reconstruct the distal femur in children.

Aims. For paediatric and adolescent patients with growth potential, preservation of the physiological joint by transepiphyseal resection (TER) of the femur confers definite advantages over arthroplasty procedures. We hypothesized that the extent of the tumour and changes in its extent after neoadjuvant chemotherapy are essential factors in the selection of this procedure, and can be assessed with MRI. The oncological and functional outcomes of the procedure were reviewed to confirm its safety and efficacy. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 16 patients (seven male and nine female, mean age 12.2 years (7 to 16)) with osteosarcoma of the knee who had been treated by TER. We evaluated the MRI scans before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for all patients to assess the extent of the disease and the response to treatment. Results. The mean follow-up period was 64.3 months (25 to 148) after surgery and no patients were lost to follow-up. On MRI evaluation, 13 tumours were near but not in contact with the physes and three tumours were partially in contact with the physes before neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Bone oedema in the epiphysis was observed in eight patients. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, bone oedema in the epiphysis disappeared in all patients. In total, 11 tumours were not in contact and five tumours were in partial contact with the physes. The postoperative pathological margin was negative in all patients. At the last follow-up, 12 patients were continuously disease-free and three had no evidence of disease. One patient died due to the disease. Functionally, the patients with retained allograft or recycled autograft had a mean knee range of flexion of 126° (90° to 150°). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional score was 27.6 (23 to 30). Conclusion. TER is an effective limb-salvage technique for treating malignant metaphyseal bone tumours in paediatric and young osteosarcoma patients with open physes when a good response to chemotherapy and no progression of the tumour to the epiphysis have been confirmed by MRI. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6):772–778

Aims. The aim of this study was to describe, analyze, and compare the survival, functional outcome, and complications of minimally invasive (MI) and non-invasive (NI) lengthening total femoral prostheses. Patients and Methods. A total of 24 lengthening total femoral prostheses, 11 MI and 13 NI, were implanted between 1991 and 2016. The characteristics, complications, and functional results were recorded. There were ten female patients and ten male patients. Their mean age at the time of surgery was 11 years (2 to 41). The mean follow-up was 13.2 years (seven months to 29.25 years). A survival analysis was performed, and the failures were classified according to the Modified Henderson System. Results. The overall implant survival was 79% at five, ten, and 20 years for MI prostheses, and 84% at five years and 70% at ten years for NI prostheses. At the final follow-up, 13 prostheses did not require further surgery. The overall complication rate was 46%. The mean revision-free implant survival for MI and NI prostheses was 59 months and 49 months, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the overall implant survival, revision-free survival, or the distribution of complications between the two types of prosthesis. Infection rates were also comparable in the groups (9% vs 7%; p = 0.902). The rate of leg-length discrepancy was 54% in MI prostheses and 23% in NI prostheses. In those with a MI prosthesis, there was a smaller mean range of movement of the knee (0° to 62° vs 0° to 83°; p = 0.047), the flexion contracture took a longer mean time to resolve after lengthening (3.3 months vs 1.07 months; p < 0.001) and there was a lower mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score (24.7 vs 27; p = 0.295). Conclusion. The survival and complications of MI and NI lengthening total femoral prostheses are comparable. However, patients with NI prosthesis have more accurate correction of leg-length discrepancy, a better range of movement of the knee and an improved overall function

Aims

Tenosynovial giant cell tumour (TGCT) is one of the most common soft-tissue tumours of the foot and ankle and can behave in a locally aggressive manner. Tumour control can be difficult, despite the various methods of treatment available. Since treatment guidelines are lacking, the aim of this study was to review the multidisciplinary management by presenting the largest series of TGCT of the foot and ankle to date from two specialized sarcoma centres.

Aims

There is an increased risk of dislocation of the hip after the resection of a periacetabular tumour and endoprosthetic reconstruction of the defect in the hemipelvis. The aim of this study was to determine the rate and timing of dislocation and to identify its risk factors.

We report our early experience with the use of a non-invasive distal femoral expandable endoprosthesis in seven skeletally immature patients with osteosarcoma of the distal femur. The patients had a mean age of 12.1 years (9 to 15) at the time of surgery. The prosthesis was lengthened at appropriate intervals in outpatient clinics, without anaesthesia, using the principle of electromagnetic induction. The patients were functionally evaluated using the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society scoring system. The mean follow-up was 20.2 months (14 to 30). The prostheses were lengthened by a mean of 25 mm (4.25 to 55) and maintained a mean knee flexion of 110° (100° to 120°). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 68% (11 to 29). Complications developed in two patients; one developed a flexion deformity of 25° at the knee joint, which was subsequently overcome and one died of disseminated disease. The early results from patients treated with this device have been encouraging. The implant avoids multiple surgical procedures, general anaesthesia and assists in maintaining leg-length equality

Aims

The purpose of this study was to report the long-term results of extendable endoprostheses of the humerus in children after the resection of a bone sarcoma.

Several techniques have been described to reconstruct a mobile wrist joint after resection of the distal radius for tumour. We reviewed our experience of using an osteo-articular allograft to do this in 17 patients with a mean follow-up of 58.9 months (28 to 119). The mean range of movement at the wrist was 56° flexion, 58° extension, 84° supination and 80° pronation. The mean ISOLS-MSTS score was 86% (63% to 97%) and the mean patient-rated wrist evaluation score was 16.5 (3 to 34). There was no local recurrence or distant metastases. The procedure failed in one patient with a fracture of the graft and an arthrodesis was finally required. Union was achieved at the host-graft interface in all except two cases. No patient reported more than modest non-disabling pain and six reported no pain at all. Radiographs showed early degenerative changes at the radiocarpal joint in every patient. A functional pain-free wrist can be restored with an osteo-articular allograft after resection of the distal radius for bone tumour, thereby avoiding the donor site morbidity associated with an autograft. These results may deteriorate with time

We investigated the functional outcome in patients who underwent reverse shoulder replacement (RSR) after removal of a tumour of the proximal humerus. A total of 16 patients (ten women and six men) underwent this procedure between 1998 and 2011 in our hospital. Five patients died and one was lost to follow-up. Ten patients were available for review at a mean follow-up of 46 months (12 to 136). Eight patients had a primary and two patients a secondary bone tumour. At final follow up the mean range of active movement was: abduction 78° (30° to 150°); flexion 98° (45° to 180°); external rotation 32° (10° to 60°); internal rotation 51° (10° to 80°). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 77% (60% to 90%) and the mean Toronto Extremity Salvage Score was 70% (30% to 91%). Two patients had a superficial infection and one had a deep infection and underwent a two-stage revision procedure. In two patients there was loosening of the RSR; one dislocated twice. All patients had some degree of atrophy or pseudo-atrophy of the deltoid muscle. Use of a RSR in patients with a tumour of the proximal humerus gives acceptable results. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1551–5

Ten patients underwent endoprosthetic replacement of the distal humerus for bone tumours over a period of 30 years. There were eight primary and two secondary tumours in four men and six women with a mean age of 47.5 years (15 to 76). The mean follow-up was eight years (9 months to 31 years). Four patients required further surgery, three having revision for aseptic loosening; two of these and one other later needing a rebushing. There were no cases of postoperative nerve palsy, infection, local recurrence or mechanical failure of the implant. Four patients died from their disease, all with the prosthesis functioning satisfactorily. At follow-up the mean flexion deformity of the elbow was 15° (0 to 35) and the mean range of flexion was 115° (110 to 135). The functional results showed a mean Toronto extremity salvage score of 73% of normal. Endoprosthetic replacement of the distal humerus and elbow is a satisfactory method of treating these rare tumours

This paper describes the preliminary results of a proximal tibial endoprosthesis which spares the knee joint and enables retention of the natural articulation by replacing part of the tibial metaphysis and diaphysis. In eight patients who had a primary malignant bone tumour of the proximal tibia, the distal stem, which had a hydroxyapatite-coated collar to improve fixation, was cemented into the medullary canal. The proximal end had hydroxyapatite-coated extracortical plates which were secured to the remaining proximal tibial metaphysis using cortical screws. The mean age of the patients at operation was 28.9 years (8 to 43) and the mean follow-up was for 35 months (4 to 48). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 79% (57% to 90%), the mean Oxford Knee score was 40 points of 48 (36 to 46) and the mean knee flexion was 112° (100° to 120°). In one patient, revision to a below-knee amputation through the prosthesis was required because of recurrence of the tumour. Another patient sustained a periprosthetic fracture which healed with a painful malunion. This was revised to a further endoprosthesis which replaced the knee. In the remaining six patients the prosthesis allowed preservation of the knee joint with good function and no early evidence of loosening. Further follow-up is required to assess the longevity of these prostheses

We used a knee-sparing distal femoral endoprosthesis in young patients with malignant bone tumours of the distal femur in whom it was possible to resect the tumour and to preserve the distal femoral condyles. The proximal shaft of the endoprosthesis had a coated hydroxyapatite collar, while the distal end had hydroxyapatite-coated extracortical plates to secure it to the small residual femoral condylar fragment. We reviewed the preliminary results of this endoprosthesis in eight patients with primary bone tumours of the distal femur. Their mean age at surgery was 17.years (14 to 21). The mean follow-up was 24 months (20 to 31). At final follow-up the mean flexion at the knee was 102° (20° to 120°) and the mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 80% (57% to 96.7%). There was excellent osteointegration at the prosthesis-proximal bone interface with formation of new bone around the hydroxyapatite collar. The prosthesis allowed preservation of the knee and achieved a good functional result. Formation of new bone and remodelling at the interface make the implant more secure. Further follow-up is required to determine the long-term structural integrity of the prosthesis

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prosthesis characteristics and associated conditions that may modify the survival of total femoral endoprosthetic replacements (TFEPR).

Elastofibroma dorsi is an uncommon, benign, slow-growing soft-tissue tumour of uncertain aetiology. It classically presents as an ill-defined mass at the inferior pole of the scapula with symptoms which include swelling, discomfort, snapping, stiffness and occasionally pain. We report the symptoms, function and outcome after treatment of 21 elastofibromas in 15 patients. All were diagnosed by MRI and early in the series four also underwent CT-guided biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. In all, 18 tumours were excised and three were observed. After excision, the mean visual analogue score for pain decreased from 4.6 (0 to 10) pre-operatively to 2.4 (0 to 8) post-operatively (p = 0.04). The mean shoulder function, at a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (3 months to 16 years), was 78.1% (30 to 100) using the Stanmore percentage of normal shoulder assessment scoring system. The mean range of forward flexion improved from 135° (70° to 180°) to 166° (100° to 180°) after excision (p = 0.005). In four patients a post-operative haematoma formed; one required evacuation. Three patients developed a post-operative seroma requiring needle aspiration and one developed a superficial infection which was treated with antibiotics. Our findings support previous reports suggesting that a pre-operative tissue diagnosis is not necessary in most cases since the lesion can be confidently diagnosed by MRI, when interpreted in the light of appropriate clinical findings. Surgical excision in symptomatic patients, is helpful. It has been suggested that elastofibroma is caused by a local tissue reaction and is not a true neoplastic process. A strong association has been noted between elastofibroma and repetitive use of the shoulder, which is supported by our findings

Aims

The aim of this study was to report the results of custom-made endoprostheses with extracortical plates plus or minus a short, intramedullary stem aimed at preserving the physis after resection of bone sarcomas in children.

We describe the functional results in 14 patients (7 men, 7 women) after subtotal scapulectomy for primary bone and soft-tissue tumours at a specialist musculoskeletal oncology unit. Eight had chondrosarcomas, two Ewing’s sarcomas, one aggressive fibromatosis and three soft-tissue sarcomas. The mean follow-up was 52 months (6 to 120). Analysis of residual symptoms and of range and strength of movement by physicians used the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society rating scale (MSTS). Physical disability was measured by the patients using the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS). All 14 patients are still alive, two with systemic disease. Nine had more than 80% of their scapula resected but the glenohumeral joint was preserved in all cases. Eight had full movement and another two achieved 90° of flexion. The mean functional results were good to excellent in all except three patients (mean MSTS = 71.6 and TESS = 79.9). Two of these three patients had considerable pain as a result of brachial neuropathy. Scapulectomy gives an excellent functional result if the glenohumeral joint is preserved. The rotator cuff could be removed without a severe functional deficit provided that the deltoid was reattached to the scapular remnant and the trapezius

Aims

Children treated for osteosarcoma around the knee often have a substantial leg-length discrepancy at skeletal maturity. The aim of this study was to investigate the results of staged skeletal reconstruction after a leg lengthening procedure using an external fixator in these patients.

Objectives

Our objective was to predict the knee extension strength and post-operative function in quadriceps resection for soft-tissue sarcoma of the thigh.

Aims

Free vascularised fibular grafting has been used for the treatment of large bony defects for more than 40 years. However, there is little information about the risk factors for failure and whether newer locking techniques of fixation improve the rates of union. The purpose of this study was to compare the rates of union of free fibular grafts fixed with locking and traditional techniques, and to quantify the risk factors for nonunion and failure.

Aims

We report a prospective cohort study of the midterm results of surgical dislocation of the hip (according to Ganz) to perform resection of osteochondromas involving the femoral neck in patients with multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE).

In patients with a tumour affecting the distal ulna it is difficult to preserve the function of the wrist following extensive local resection. We report the outcome of 12 patients (nine female, three male) who underwent excision of the distal ulna without local soft-tissue reconstruction. In six patients, an aggressive benign tumour was present and six had a malignant tumour. At a mean follow-up of 64 months (15 to 132) the mean Musculoskeletal Tumour score was 64% (40% to 93%) and the mean DASH score was 35 (10 to 80). The radiological appearances were satisfactory in most patients. Local recurrence occurred in one patient with benign disease and two with malignant disease. The functional outcome was thus satisfactory at a mean follow-up in excess of five years, with a relatively low rate of complications. The authors conclude that complex reconstructive soft-tissue procedures may not be needed in these patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1392–5.

Resection of a primary sarcoma of the diaphysis of a long bone creates a large defect. The biological options for reconstruction include the use of a vascularised and non-vascularised fibular autograft.

The purpose of the present study was to compare these methods of reconstruction.

Between 1985 and 2007, 53 patients (26 male and 27 female) underwent biological reconstruction of a diaphyseal defect after resection of a primary sarcoma. Their mean age was 20.7 years (3.6 to 62.4). Of these, 26 (49 %) had a vascularised and 27 (51 %) a non-vascularised fibular autograft. Either method could have been used for any patient in the study. The mean follow-up was 52 months (12 to 259). Oncological, surgical and functional outcome were evaluated. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed for graft survival with major complication as the end point.

At final follow-up, eight patients had died of disease. Primary union was achieved in 40 patients (75%); 22 (42%) with a vascularised fibular autograft and 18 (34%) a non-vascularised (p = 0.167). A total of 32 patients (60%) required revision surgery. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a mean survival without complication of 36 months (0.06 to 107.3, sd 9) for the vascularised group and 88 months (0.33 to 163.9, sd 16) for the non-vascularised group (p = 0.035).

Both groups seem to be reliable biological methods of reconstructing a diaphyseal bone defect. Vascularised autografts require more revisions mainly due to problems with wound healing in distal sites of tumour, such as the foot.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1258–63.

We evaluated the clinical results and complications after extra-articular resection of the distal femur and/or proximal tibia and reconstruction with a tumour endoprosthesis (MUTARS) in 59 patients (mean age 33 years (11 to 74)) with malignant bone or soft-tissue tumours. According to a Kaplan–Meier analysis, limb survival was 76% (95% confidence interval (CI) 64.1 to 88.5) after a mean follow-up of 4.7 years (one month to 17 years). Peri-prosthetic infection was the most common indication for subsequent amputation (eight patients). Survival of the prosthesis without revision was 48% (95% CI 34.8 to 62.0) at two years and 25% (95% CI 11.1 to 39.9) at five years post-operatively. Failure of the prosthesis was due to deep infection in 22 patients (37%), aseptic loosening in ten patients (17%), and peri-prosthetic fracture in six patients (10%). Wear of the bearings made a minor revision necessary in 12 patients (20%). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 23 (10 to 29). An extensor lag > 10° was noted in ten patients (17%).

These results suggest that limb salvage after extra-articular resection with a tumour prosthesis can achieve good functional results in most patients, although the rates of complications and subsequent amputation are higher than in patients treated with intra-articular resection.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1425–31.

In skeletally immature patients, resection of bone tumours and reconstruction of the lower limb often results in leg-length discrepancy. The Stanmore non-invasive extendible endoprosthesis, which uses electromagnetic induction, allows post-operative lengthening without anaesthesia. Between 2002 and 2009, 55 children with a mean age of 11.4 years (5 to 16) underwent reconstruction with this prosthesis; ten patients (18.2%) died of disseminated disease and one child underwent amputation due to infection. We reviewed 44 patients after a mean follow-up of 41.2 months (22 to 104). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 24.7 (8 to 30) and the Toronto Extremity Salvage score was 92.3% (55.2% to 99.0%). There was no local recurrence of tumour. Complications developed in 16 patients (29.1%) and ten (18.2%) underwent revision.

The mean length gained per patient was 38.6 mm (3.5 to 161.5), requiring a mean of 11.3 extensions (1 to 40), and ten component exchanges were performed in nine patients (16.4%) after attaining the maximum lengthening capacity of the implant. There were 11 patients (20%) who were skeletally mature at follow-up, ten of whom had equal leg lengths and nine had a full range of movement of the hip and knee.

This is the largest reported series using non-invasive extendible endoprostheses after excision of primary bone tumours in skeletally immature patients. The technique produces a good functional outcome, with prevention of limb-length discrepancy at skeletal maturity.

The current indications for functional restoration of extension of the knee following quadriceps resection or loss require reappraisal. The contribution of pedicled and free functional muscle transfer is likely to be over-emphasised in many studies, with good functional outcomes predominantly reported only in the context of cases with residual quadriceps function. In cases with total quadriceps resection or loss, all forms of reconstruction perform poorly. Furthermore, in smaller resections with loss of two or fewer components of the quadriceps, minimal impairment of function occurs in the absence of functional reconstruction, suggesting that functional restoration may not be warranted. Thus there is a paradox in the current approach to quadriceps reconstruction, in that small resections are likely to be over-treated and large resections remain under-treated.

This review suggests a shift is required in the approach and rationale for reconstructing functional extension of the knee after quadriceps resection or loss. A classification based on current evidence is suggested that emphasises more clearly the indications and rationale for functional transfers.

We have reviewed five adult patients treated with endoprosthetic reconstruction of the proximal radius following resection of non-traumatic lesions. The patients had a mean age of 33.4 years (20 to 60) at the time of surgery and the mean follow-up was 7.6 years (0.8 to 16).

Following surgery, all elbows were clinically stable and there was 100% survivorship of the prosthesis. Evaluation of function was assessed clinically and by the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, achieving a mean of 86% (70 to 100).

Results at medium-term follow-up are encouraging with regards to elbow stability, implant survivorship and functional outcome.

We describe the management of nonunion combined with limb-length discrepancy following vascularised fibular grafting for the reconstruction of long-bone defects in the lower limb after resection of a tumour in skeletally immature patients. We operated on nine patients with a mean age of 13.1 years (10.5 to 14.5) who presented with a mean limb-length discrepancy of 7 cm (4 to 9) and nonunion at one end of a vascularised fibular graft, which had been performed previously, to reconstruct a bone defect after resection of an osteosarcoma.

Reconstruction was carried out using a ring fixator secured with correction by half pins of any malalignment, compression of the site of nonunion and lengthening through a metaphyseal parafocal osteotomy without bone grafting. The expected limb-length discrepancy at maturity was calculated using the arithmetic method. Solid union and the intended leg length were achieved in all the patients. Excessive scarring and the distorted anatomy from previous surgery in these patients required other procedures to be performed with minimal exposures and dissection in order to avoid further compromise to the vascularity of the graft or damage to neurovascular structures. The methods which we chose were simple and effective in addressing these complex problems.

We reviewed our initial seven-year experience with a non-invasive extendible prosthesis in 34 children with primary bone tumours. The distal femur was replaced in 25 cases, total femur in five, proximal femur in one and proximal tibia in three. The mean follow-up was 44 months (15 to 86) and 27 patients (79%) remain alive. The prostheses were lengthened by an electromagnetic induction mechanism in an outpatient setting and a mean extension of 32 mm (4 to 80) was achieved without anaesthesia. There were lengthening complications in two children: failed lengthening in one and the formation of scar tissue in the other. Deep infection developed in six patients (18%) and local recurrence in three. A total of 11 patients required further surgery to the leg. Amputation was necessary in five patients (20%) and a two-stage revision in another. There were no cases of loosening, but two patients had implant breakage and required revision. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional score was 85% (60% to 100%) at last known follow-up. These early results demonstrate that the non-invasive extendible prosthesis allows successful lengthening without surgical intervention, but the high incidence of infection is a cause for concern.

We report our early experience with a new peri-acetabular reconstruction endoprosthesis used for pelvic reconstruction after tumour resection. The outcome of 21 patients who underwent limb salvage following type II pelvic resection and reconstruction using the peri-acetabular reconstruction prosthesis between 2000 and 2006 was retrospectively reviewed. This prosthesis was designed to use the remaining part of the ilium to support a horizontally placed acetabular component secured with internal fixation and bone cement. Into this device a constrained acetabular liner is positioned which is articulates with a conventional femoral component to which a modular extension and modular head are attached. The mean follow-up was 20.5 months (1 to 77). The most common complications were deep infection, superficial wound infections, and dislocation. The mean musculoskeletal tumor society functional outcome score for the survivors was 20.1(11 to 27).

We recommend the use of the peri-acetabular reconstruction prosthesis for reconstruction of large defects after type II pelvic resection, as this design has a greater inherent stability over other available prostheses.

The use of allografts for the treatment of bone tumours in children is limited by nonunion and the difficulty of finding a suitable graft. Furthermore, appositional growth can’t be expected of an allograft.

We used an overlapping allograft in 11 children, with a mean age of ten years (4 to 15), with a mean follow-up of 24.1 months (20 to 33). There were five intercalary and six intra-articular resections, and the tumours were in the femur in six cases and the humerus in five. Rates of union, times to union, remodelling patterns and allograft-associated complications were evaluated.

No allograft was removed due to a complication. Of the 16 junctional sites, 15 (94%) showed union at a mean of 3.1 months (2 to 5). Remodelling between host and allograft was seen at 14 junctions at a mean of five months (4 to 7). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 26.5 of 30 (88.3%). One case of nonunion and another with screw protrusion required re-operation.

Overlapping allografts have the potential to shorten time to union, decrease rates of nonunion and have positive appositional growth effect.

We describe a retrospective review of 38 cases of reconstruction following resection of the metaphysiodiaphysis of the lower limb for malignant bone tumours using free vascularised fibular grafts. The mean follow-up was for 7.6 years (0.4 to 18.4). The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 27.2 (20 to 30). The score was significantly higher when the graft was carried out in a one-stage procedure after resection of the tumour rather than in two stages. Bony union was achieved in 89% of the cases. The overall mean time to union was 1.7 years (0.2 to 10.3).

Free vascularised fibular transfer is a major operation with frequent, but preventable, complications which allows salvage of the limb with satisfactory functional results.

Four patients who developed malignant synovial tumours are described; one with chondromatosis developed a synovial chondrosarcoma and three with pigmented villonodular synovitis developed malignant change. The relevant literature is discussed.

Between June 2005 and March 2008, 14 patients with a Campanacci grade-3 giant-cell tumour of the distal radius were treated by en bloc resection and reconstruction by ulnar translocation with arthrodesis of the wrist. The mean length of radius resected was 7.9 cm (5.5 to 15). All the patients were followed to bony union and 12 were available at a mean follow-up of 26 months (10 to 49).

The mean time to union was four months (3 to 7) at the ulnocarpal junction and five months (3 to 8) at the ulnoradial junction. All except one patient had an excellent range of pronation and supination. The remaining patient developed a radio-ulnar synostosis. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 26 (87%, range 20 to 28). Three patients had a soft-tissue recurrence, but with no bony involvement. They underwent a further excision and are currently well and free from disease.

Ulnar translocation provides a local vascularised bone graft to reconstruct the defect left after excision of the distal radius for giant cell tumour. It avoids the need for a microvascular procedure while retaining rotation of the forearm and good function of the hand.

Endoprosthetic reconstruction following resection of 31 tumours of the proximal femur in 30 patients was performed using a Wagner SL femoral revision stem. The mean follow-up was 25.6 months (0.6 to 130.0). Of the 28 patients with a metastasis, 27 died within a mean follow-up period of 18.1 months (0.6 to 56.3) after the operation, and the remaining patient was excluded from the study 44.4 months post-operatively when the stem was removed. The two patients with primary bone tumours were still alive at the latest follow-up of 81.0 and 130.0 months, respectively. One stem only was removed for suspected low-grade infection 44.4 months post-operatively. The worst-case survival rate with removal of the stem for any cause and/or loss to follow-up was 80.0% (95% confidence interval 44.9 to 100) at 130.0 months. The mean Karnofsky index increased from 44.2% (20% to 70%) pre-operatively to 59.7% (0% to 100%) post-operatively, and the mean Merle d’Aubigné score improved from 4.5 (0 to 15) to 12.0 (0 to 18). The mean post-operative Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 62.4% (3.3% to 100%).

The Wagner SL femoral revision stem offers an alternative to special tumour prostheses for the treatment of primary and secondary tumours of the proximal femur. The mid-term results are very promising, but long-term experience is necessary.

Internal hemipelvectomy is a standard treatment for malignant tumours of the pelvis. Reconstruction using a non-vascularised fibular graft is relatively straightforward compared to other techniques. We describe the surgical and functional outcomes for a series of ten patients who underwent an internal hemipelvectomy (type I or I/IV) with reconstruction by a non-vascularised fibular graft between 1996 and 2009. A key prerequisite for this procedure was a preserved sciatic notch, confirmed pre-operatively on MRI.

Graft-host union was achieved in all patients with a single fibular graft, and in the lower graft where two grafts had been used. The mean time to union was 7.3 months (3 to 12). The upper graft did not unite in four of six cases where two grafts had been used. Seven patients were eventually able to walk without a stick. The mean post-operative Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 75.4% (16.7 to 96.7). There were no cases of deep post-operative infection. The mean pelvic shortening was 0.9 cm (0.2 to 3.4). Recurrent tumour occurred in three cases, and death from tumour-related disease occured in one.

Patients who need an internal hemipelvectomy will do well if their pelvic ring is reconstructed with a non-vascularised fibular graft. The complication rate is low, and they attain a good functional outcome.

We evaluated the oncological and functional outcome of 27 patients who had limb salvage for a soft-tissue sarcoma of the foot or ankle between 1992 and 2007, with a mean follow-up of 7.5 years (1.05 to 16.2). There were 12 men and 15 women, with a mean age at presentation of 47 years (12 to 84). Referrals came from other hospitals for 16 patients who had previous biopsy or unplanned excision, and 11 presented de novo. There were 18 tumours located in the foot and nine around the ankle. Synovial sarcoma was the most frequent histological diagnosis. Excision was performed in all cases, with 16 patients requiring plastic surgical reconstruction with 13 free and three local flaps. Adjuvant treatment was undertaken in 20 patients, 18 with radiotherapy and two by chemotherapy. Limb salvage was successful in 26 of the 27 patients. There have been two local recurrences and two mesenchymal metastases. Four patients have died of their sarcoma and two of other causes.

Function was evaluated with the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score and a mean overall score of 89.40 (52.1 to 100) was obtained. A questionnaire revealed that all surviving patients are able to wear normal shoes and none require a walking aid.

Limb salvage can achieve good oncological and functional results with additional treatment.

We undertook a retrospective review of 33 patients who underwent total femoral endoprosthetic replacement as limb salvage following excision of a malignant bone tumour. In 22 patients this was performed as a primary procedure following total femoral resection for malignant disease. Revision to a total femoral replacement was required in 11 patients following failed segmental endoprosthetic or allograft reconstruction. There were 33 patients with primary malignant tumours, and three had metastatic lesions. The mean age of the patients was 31 years (5 to 68). The mean follow-up was 4.2 years (9 months to 16.4 years). At five years the survival of the implants was 100%, with removal as the endpoint and 56% where the endpoint was another surgical intervention. At five years the patient survival was 32%. Complications included dislocation of the hip in six patients (18%), local recurrence in three (9%), peri-prosthetic fracture in two and infection in one. One patient subsequently developed pulmonary metastases. There were no cases of aseptic loosening or amputation. Four patients required a change of bushings. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society functional outcome score was 67%, the mean Harris Hip Score was 70, and the mean Oxford Knee Score was 34.

Total femoral endoprosthetic replacement can provide good functional outcome without compromising patient survival, and in selected cases provides an effective alternative to amputation.

We reviewed 25 patients who had undergone resection of a primary bone sarcoma which extended to within 5 cm of the knee with reconstruction by a combination of a free vascularised fibular graft and a massive allograft bone shell. The distal femur was affected in four patients and the proximal tibia in 21. Their mean age at the time of operation was 19.7 years (5 to 52) and the mean follow-up period 140 months (28 to 213). Three vascularised transfers failed. The mean time to union of the fibula was 5.6 months (3 to 10) and of the allograft 19.6 months (10 to 34). Full weight-bearing was allowed at a mean of 21.4 months (14 to 36). The mean functional score at final follow-up was 27.4 (18 to 30) using a modfied 30-point Musculoskeletal Tumour Society rating system. The overall limb-salvage rate was 88%. The results of our study suggest that the combined use of a vascularised fibular graft and allograft is of value as a limb-salvage procedure for intercalary reconstruction after resection of bone tumours around the knee, especially in skeletally immature patients.

In developing countries locally-made low-cost prostheses are mainly used in limb-salvage surgery to alleviate the economic burden.

We retrospectively collected data on 104 patients treated by limb-salvage surgery between July 1997 and July 2005. We used a locally-designed and fabricated stainless-steel endoprosthesis in each case. Oncological and functional outcomes were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 47 months (12 to 118).

A total of 73 patients (70.2%) were free from disease, nine (8.7%) were alive with disease, 19 (18.2%) had died from their disease and three (2.9%) from unrelated causes. According to the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scoring system, the mean functional score was 76.3% (SD 17.8). The five-year survival for the implant was 70.5%. There were nine cases (8.7%) of infection, seven early and two late, seven (6.7%) of breakage of the prosthesis, three (2.9%) of aseptic loosening and two (1.9%) of failure of the polyethylene bushing. Multivariate analysis showed that a proximal tibial prosthesis and a resection length of 14 cm or more were significant negative prognostic factors.

Our survival rates and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional scores are similar to those reported in the literature. Although longer follow-up is needed to confirm our results, we believe that a low-cost custom-made endoprosthesis is a cost-effective and reliable reconstructive option for limb salvage in developing countries.

We have analysed the pattern of symptoms in patients presenting with synovial sarcoma to identify factors which led to long delays in diagnosis. In 35 children, the early symptoms and the results of clinical and radiological investigation were reviewed, along with the presumed diagnoses. The duration of symptoms was separated into patient delay and doctor delay.

Only half of the patients had one or more of the four clinical findings suggestive of sarcoma according to the guidance of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence at the onset of symptoms. Of the 33 children for whom data were available, 16 (48.5%) presented with a painless mass and in ten (30.3%) no mass was identified. Seven (21.2%) had an unexplained joint contracture. Many had been extensively investigated unsuccessfully. The mean duration of symptoms was 98 weeks (2 to 364), the mean patient delay was 43 weeks (0 to 156) and the mean doctor delay was 50 weeks (0 to 362). The mean number of doctors seen before referral was three (1 to 6) and for 15 patients the diagnosis was obtained after unplanned excision. Tumours around the knee and elbow were associated with a longer duration of symptoms and longer doctor delay compared with those at other sites. Delays did not improve significantly over the period of our study of 21 years, and we were unable to show that delay in diagnosis led to a worse prognosis.

Our findings highlight the variety of symptoms associated with synovial sarcoma and encourage greater awareness of this tumour as a potential diagnosis in childhood.

We describe a consecutive series of five patients with bone or soft-tissue sarcomas of the elbow and intra-articular extension treated by complex soft tissue, allograft bone and prosthetic joint replacement after wide extra-articular en bloc excision. All had a pedicled myocutaneous latissimus dorsi rotation flap for soft-tissue cover and reconstruction of the triceps. Wide negative surgical margins were obtained in all five patients. No local wound complications or infections were seen. There were no local recurrences at a mean follow-up of 60 months (20 to 105). The functional results were excellent in four patients and good in one. Longer term follow-up is necessary to confirm the durability of the elbow reconstruction.