Vascularized Bone Graft Reconstruction Following Bone Tumor Resection at a Multidisciplinary Sarcoma Center: Outcome Analysis

Abstract

Background/aim: Limb-sparing procedures are frequently applied to improve patient outcomes. The use of vascularized bone grafts is associated with significant improvements in oncologic safety and functional satisfaction. This study highlights the clinical outcomes following tumor resection combined with vascularized bone graft reconstructions.

Patients and methods: Twenty-five free vascularized bone grafts (17 fibulas, 5 iliac crests, 3 medial femoral condyles) were assessed with respect to consolidation and hypertrophy, functional and oncologic outcomes, and local complications.

Results: The rate of healing of fibular grafts after a median of 5 months was 86%. The rate of achieved unions of iliac crest grafts after a median of 5 months was 80%. In medial femoral condyle bone grafts, union occurred after a median of 4 months. Significant hypertrophy was observed in 13 patients. We identified six complications with highest rates in the fibula-group. Despite the high complications, functional results were highly satisfactory.

Conclusion: Vascularized bone grafts represent a reconstructive approach, maintaining long-term functionality and cosmetic satisfaction without compromising tumor recurrence outcomes.

Keywords: Bone sarcoma; fibula; iliac crest; limb-sparing procedure; medial femoral condyle; vascularized bone graft; vascularized bone graft reconstruction.