Silent surface osteosarcoma treated following the hemi-capanna technique. A case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Oncology
• Surgical Reconstruction

Background:

• Surface sarcomas, including High Grade Surface Osteosarcoma (HGSO), necessitate precise diagnosis to distinguish from parosteal and periosteal subtypes.
• HGSO exhibits malignant characteristics similar to conventional osteosarcomas, underscoring the critical role of wide surgical resection for successful management.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old male presented with knee pain and a tibial surface tumor diagnosed as HGSO.
• The patient underwent oncological resection followed by reconstruction using the Hemi-Capanna technique, incorporating an allograft and ipsilateral fibula autograft, supplemented by a gastrocnemius flap.

Findings:

• The Hemi-Capanna technique, while less established than the Capanna technique, demonstrates potential as a simpler surgical approach.
• This case highlights the Hemi-Capanna technique's efficacy in achieving favorable functional results with minimal complications in HGSO reconstruction.

Implications:

• The Hemi-Capanna technique presents a viable alternative for limb-sparing surgery in complex musculoskeletal reconstructions, potentially reducing the need for amputation.
• Further evidence supporting the Hemi-Capanna technique could enhance its adoption in treating surface sarcomas and other bone tumors.