A bioceramic endoprosthesis for the replacement of the proximal humerus

In patients with malignant tumors in the region of the shoulder, radical resection can avoid amputation in most instances. To improve the function of the arm, endoprosthetic replacement of the defect is desirable. A three-component endoprosthesis made of a bioceramic material (aluminium oxide) was designed, implanted without bone cement. Fast anchorage to bone is achieved by using a conical sleeve, fixed upon the previously conically reamed humerus shaft. A stable primary fit is always feasible. Subsequent bone in growth into grooves inside the conical sleeve provides a permanent anchorage of the endoprosthesis. The authors experiences are based on implantations of 38 endoprostheses. The original diseases were primary malignant bone tumors in 19 patients, one case of "solitary" plasmocytoma and metastases into the proximal humerus in 16 patients. In two women, resection was made because of posttraumatic subcapital humeral pseudarthrosis. The follow-up study includes only those 27 cases operated on at least one year ago. 12 of the 14 patients with primary tumors have been surviving for 12-55 months (range 27.4) without signs of metastases or recurrent disease. Seven patients with metastases died of their original diseases after 7.7 months on the average. Owing to extensive resection of the shoulder musculature the mobility in the shoulder joint is considerably reduced. All the patients have good movement of the elbow joint and free function of the hand.