title: The outcome and functional results of diaphyseal endoprostheses after tumour excision.
abstract: Improvement in the life expectancy of patients with primary bone tumours has led to increased emphasis on limb salvage and preservation of function. Between 1979 and 1994 we used custom-made endoprostheses in 18 patients to reconstruct diaphyseal defects after excision of primary bone tumours. The mean age at operation was 26 years (9 to 64) and the median follow-up 65 months (6 to 188). Fifteen patients have survived and are free from local or metastatic disease. Local recurrence developed in one patient. Using the modified Enneking functional scoring system, 77% of the patients achieved 80% or more of their premorbid functional capability. Mechanical loosening, limb shortening and secondary osteoarthritis were the main complications. There were no infections. We conclude that diaphyseal endoprostheses offer a good clinical and functional outcome in the lower limb.
authors.affiliation: Royal Orthopaedic Hospital Oncology Service, Birmingham, England.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Abudu
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Carter
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Grimer
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D018483:Diaphyses / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005266:Femoral Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005269:Femur / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006811:Humerus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011859:Radiography; D013977:Tibia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome