Functional outcomes of bone graft substitutes for benign bone tumors

Benign bone tumors are frequently treated surgically by intralesional excision with grafting. Due to the significant morbidity associated with autogenous graft, there is interest in bone graft substitutes. Ninety-eight consecutive patients with benign bone tumors treated by intralesional excision with bone graft substitutes were retrospectively reviewed. Functional scores using the International Symposium of Limb Salvage (ISOLS) system were obtained at most recent follow-up. The mean functional score was 28.3 out of 30 (94%). Three patients suffered fractures that ultimately healed with management. There were no local recurrences. Based on results of this study, bone graft substitutes are a reasonable alternative to autogenous grafting with a successful functional outcome.