Intercalary bone allografts. 23 tumor cases followed for 3 years

From 1987 to 1991, 26 patients with malignant bone tumors (osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, chondrosarcoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma) in the diaphysis or metaphysis of long bones have been treated by chemotherapy, radiotherapy and intercalary bone allograft replacement after resection. The mean follow-up was 3 years in 23 patients, 2 died from tumors, and 1 had an amputation because of local recurrence. Allograft incorporation in 11 metaphyseal anastomoses was excellent in all cases. In the 23 diaphyseal anastomoses there were 6 non-unions. Other complications were deep infection in 3 cases, leg length discrepancy in 2 and allograft fracture in 2. Function became satisfactory in 14 cases.