Review article limb salvage surgery in bone tumours

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Oncology
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Wide resection of bone tumors is standard in limb salvage surgery.
• Reconstructing the resulting bone defect presents a significant challenge.
• Restoring joint function after tumor resection requires effective reconstruction methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate reconstruction options for bone defects after wide tumor resection.
• To identify the most suitable method for limb salvage surgery.
• To address reconstruction challenges in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Review of reconstruction techniques including osteoarticular allografts, endoprostheses, resection arthrodesis with autografts, cement, and autoclaved tumor bone.
• Analysis of suitability for different anatomical locations (proximal tibia, distal femur).
• Assessment of technical simplicity, long-term suitability, and cost-effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Osteoarticular allografts are suitable for proximal tibial reconstruction; endoprostheses for distal femoral reconstruction.
• Autografts are rarely used for large defects; cement has long-term limitations.
• Reimplantation of autoclaved tumor bone is technically simple and cost-effective.

Conclusions:

• Reimplantation of autoclaved tumor bone is a viable and cost-effective solution for bone defect reconstruction.
• This method is particularly suitable for developing and low-income countries.
• It addresses financial, technical, and socio-cultural barriers to other reconstruction methods.