The use of massive bone allografts for intercalary reconstruction and arthrodeses after tumor resection. A multicentric European study

A multicentric study was conducted by the European Musculoskeletal Oncology Society on 113 cases of resection for tumors of the major long bones and reconstruction with massive allografts, as intercalary diaphyseal or for arthrodesis. The follow-up was at least 12 months. There was a 14% incidence of infection, with a higher frequency (18.5%) in intercalary grafts as compared to arthrodeses (7%). Fracture of the graft occurred in 15.5% of the cases with a prevalence in the humerus (28.5%) as compared to the tibia (21.4%) and femur (14.7%). Fracture constantly occurred after osteosynthesis with screws, in 16% of the cases after osteosynthesis with a plate, and in 12.5% of the cases after osteosynthesis with an intramedullary nail. It was observed in 32% of the grafts preserved at -30 degrees, in 17% of those irradiated, and in 7% and 7.6% of those preserved at -180 degrees and -80 degrees, respectively. Delayed union and non-union was observed in 57% of the cases: 63% in intercalary grafts, 48% in arthrodeses. Final results after treatment of complications were excellent and good in 63% of the entire series. The results should, however, be evaluated after 3 years, as during this period of time important transformation phenomena of the graft occur. Complications are observed in 75% of the cases, but they may be reduced if planning is correct and surgery is accurate. Each complication may be dealt with and resolved without high risks for preservation of the limb.