Long-term follow-up of nonvascularized fibular autografts for distal radial reconstruction

Three patients with giant cell tumors of the distal radius had en bloc excision of the distal radius and replacement with the ipsilateral fibula. Two of the patients were followed for 16 years and one for 14 1/2 years. Forearm rotation, as well as wrist motion, was limited in all three patients, yet they remained functional and pain free except during periods of prolonged or excessive use. All three patients were pleased with the results. Bone union occurred primarily in all three patients without a supplemental bone graft or microvascular anastomosis. This method has a definite place in the hand surgeon's armamentarium when compared with radial allografts and microvascular free fibular translocation.