Oncology-Related Orthopaedic Procedures
Reconstruction Following Tumour Resection
OVERVIEW
Reconstructive surgery aims to rebuild the area where the tumour was removed to restore its function after a major surgery like tumour resection. In some cases, a large amount of tissue including bone is removed in an attempt completely excise the tumour. The size and extent of the bone that is resected during surgery needs to be reconstructed so that the limb can return to a level of function that allows the patient to be pain free and mobile.
EXAMPLES OF COMMON RECONSTRUCTIVE METHODS
Megaprosthesis:
Many bone tumours requiring bony resection and reconstruction are found near joints like the hip or knee joint. After resection, these areas of bone are particularly favourable areas for what is known as a Megaprosthesis. A Megaprosthesis is a prosthesis similar to a hip or knee replacement. However, it can be extended or built upwards or downwards into large bone defects.
Intercalary prosthesis:
An intercalary prosthesis is very similar to a Megaprosthesis but it used primarily for bone defect reconstruction in the middle of long bones after tumour resection. This type of reconstruction is used when tumours are found in the middle of the bone away from the joints and a prosthesis is needed to bridge the two bones after resection of the tumour.
Vascularized fibula transfer:
A vascularized fibula transfer is a microsurgical technique that involves the transfer of a piece of the patient’s own fibula along with its blood vessels to a recipient site to reconstruct a bone defect after tumour resection. This technique is generally used in children in some instances.