Joint-preserving limb salvage surgery under navigation guidance

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Oncology
• Surgical Navigation
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Navigation systems enhance intraoperative visualization using MRI and/or CT in orthopedic oncology.
• This study focuses on navigation-assisted limb salvage surgeries for malignant bone tumors in long bone metaphysis or iliac bone.
• The goal is to preserve adjacent joints during tumor resection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of navigation-assisted surgery for joint-preserving limb salvage in patients with bone tumors.
• To assess the feasibility of using fused CT and MRI data for intraoperative guidance.
• To determine the oncological and functional outcomes of these procedures.

Main Methods:

• Joint-preserving surgery was performed under navigation guidance when preoperative chemotherapy was effective and sufficient epiphysis remained.
• CT and MRI data fusion was utilized for intraoperative guidance.
• Deep frozen strut allografts were used for anatomical reconstruction.

Main Results:

• Pathological examination confirmed resection margins aligned with preoperative plans.
• All patients achieved satisfactory functional scores post-surgery.
• No evidence of tumor recurrence was observed on follow-up radiographs and chest CT scans.

Conclusions:

• Navigation-assisted surgery is a viable option for limb salvage procedures in orthopedic oncology.
• This technique facilitates adjacent joint preservation in carefully selected patients.
• The approach demonstrates oncological safety and positive functional results.