Microwave in situ inactivation in the treatment of bone giant cell tumor: a mid-term descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Biomaterials in Orthopedics

Background:

• Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) is a primary bone tumor often occurring in the epiphysis of long bones.
• Treatment aims to achieve local control, preserve function, and minimize recurrence.
• Microwave in situ inactivation offers a minimally invasive approach for GCTB treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the mid-term clinical efficacy of microwave in situ inactivation combined with bone grafting or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) filling.
• To assess the recurrence rate and functional outcomes after this combined treatment modality for GCTB.
• To determine the safety and complication profile of microwave in situ inactivation for GCTB.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study of 30 GCTB patients treated between January 2012 and January 2020.
• Microwave in situ inactivation followed by bone grafting or PMMA filling.
• Evaluation of clinical recurrence rate and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) function scores at mid-term follow-up (21-110 months).

Main Results:

• No in situ recurrences, reoperations, or distant lung metastases observed in the study cohort.
• Average MSTS functional score of 27.53 points at last follow-up.
• Low incidence of complications including fat liquefaction, tissue rejection, infection, and degenerative joint changes.

Conclusions:

• Microwave in situ inactivation combined with bone grafting or PMMA is a viable limb salvage option for GCTB.
• The procedure demonstrates effective local control and good functional outcomes.
• This technique is a prudent choice for treating giant cell tumors of long and periarticular bones.