title: Limb reconstruction after traumatic bone loss.
abstract: A variety of options exist to reconstruct limbs following traumatic bone loss. The management of these injuries is challenging and often requires prolonged and potentially painful treatment. The Ilizarov technique of bone transport using circular external fixators is widely used for limb reconstruction of large bone defects. Other techniques include vascularised fibular grafting, the use of induced pseudosynovial membranes combined with cancellous autologous bone grafts and the use of autologous, allogeneic or synthetic bone grafts on their own for smaller defects. Future directions include further research on bone tissue engineering using stem cell therapy and growth factors such as bone morphogenetic proteins. The purpose of this Continuing Medical Education article is to describe the key limb reconstructive techniques that may be employed to treat traumatic bone loss. In particular, this article is intended to serve as a revision tool for those preparing for postgraduate examinations.
authors: Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Brockley Hill, Stanmore HA7 4LP, UK. Electronic address: mukai.cg@mac.com.
authors: Mukai
authors: M
authors: Chimutengwende-Gordon
authors: North Manchester General Hospital, Delaunays Road, Crumpsall, Manchester M8 5RB, UK.
authors: Abubaker
authors: A
authors: Mbogo
authors: Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Brockley Hill, Stanmore HA7 4LP, UK.
authors: Wasim
authors: W
authors: Khan
authors: Limb Reconstruction Unit, Hope Hospital, Stott Lane, Salford, Lancashire M6 8HD, UK.
authors: Richard
authors: R
authors: Wilkes
mesh_terms: D001807:Blood Vessel Prosthesis; D019485:Bone Morphogenetic Proteins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016025:Bone Transplantation / Q000379:methods; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D016267:External Fixators; D005360:Fibula / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D018889:Ilizarov Technique / Q000639:trends; D023821:Limb Salvage / Q000379:methods; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D033581:Stem Cell Transplantation / Q000379:methods*
chemical_list: D019485:Bone Morphogenetic Proteins
keywords: Bone defects; Ilizarov technique; Limb reconstruction; Vascularised fibular grafts