Rib cartilage grafting in upper limb surgery: an overview

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Chondrocostal grafts are utilized in maxillofacial and hand surgery.
• This study evaluates the long-term radiological and histological outcomes of chondrocostal autografts in hand and wrist surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the long-term radiological and histological evolution of chondrocostal autografts in hand and wrist surgery.
• To assess the viability and quality of chondrocostal grafts after interposition for articular surface reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 144 patients who received chondrocostal autografts for various hand and wrist conditions.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in 19 patients and histological analysis in 12 patients, with a mean follow-up of 68 months.

Main Results:

• Satisfactory clinical results were achieved across all indications at long-term follow-up.
• Radiological and MRI studies indicated graft viability with minimal osseous metaplasia and no significant wear.
• Histological examination revealed neo-vascularization of the cartilage, confirming its biological activity.

Conclusions:

• Chondrocostal grafts serve as trustworthy biological arthroplasty for hand and wrist reconstruction, despite mechanical stress.
• The cartilage remains viable and of satisfactory quality long-term, fulfilling reconstructive requirements.
• While infrequent complications may occur, the graft's biological integrity is maintained.