Our Experience With Extracorporeal Irradiation and Reimplantation of the Irradiated Bone for the Reconstruction of Bone Defects Following Tumor Resection

Background: With tremendous improvement in the survival of patients with malignant bone tumors, there is a greater emphasis on the functional outcome and durability of reconstruction following tumor resection. Tumor resection and extracorporeal irradiation (ECI) followed by reimplantation of the irradiated bone in malignant bone tumors is drawing popularity across various centers. In this study, we aim to put forward our experience with ECI, the outcomes achieved, and the complications faced by us. Methods: This is a prospective study conducted in patients with malignant and locally aggressive bone tumors who underwent ECI at our center. A total number of 20 patients were selected for the study and followed up for a mean duration of 32.5 months (maximum duration: 58 months, minimum duration: eight months). Orthopedic outcome was measured using the Enneking score. We assessed for local recurrence, functional outcome, union, and complications during the follow-up. Results: During the course of follow up, local recurrence was seen in two patients. The mean MSTS score of the remaining patients was found to be 23.6. Complications seen included limb length discrepancy, surgical site infection, and graft lysis. Conclusion: Tumor resection and ECI is an effective procedure for biological reconstruction which gives satisfactory functional outcomes. In spite of certain complications, patients expressed satisfaction with the overall outcome of the procedure.