Structural bone allograft fractures in oncological procedures

We report our experience analysing the risk of fracture amongst allografts in limb-preserving surgery for bone tumours.

We retrospectively reviewed our experience with bone allograft and its major complications when used for limb -preserving operations for bone tumours. Forty-one structural allografts were performed in 39 patients between 1992 and 2012. Minimum follow-up was 20 months. Massive allografts have a high complication rate.

Excluding infection and nonunion, five acute fractures were found. All fractures occurred after the graft-host junction was united. Local factors-such as graft preservation, weight bearing, fixation to the host or systemic factors such as adjuvant treatments (chemotherapy or radiotherapy)-influence fracture rate. In our study, four patients achieved consolidation with internal fixation and autologous iliac-crest graft, whilst only one required graft exchange.

There is no general consensus as to when to treat fractures using open reduction and internal fixation or by exchanging the allograft. Higher fracture rate in relation to systemic treatment was found.

Massive structural allograft reconstruction still has a place in limb-preserving surgery, with an acceptable fracture rate and a durable solution.