Fixation of pathological humeral fractures by the cemented plate technique

Comparison of reconstructive techniques for nonprimary malignancies in the proximal humerus

BACKGROUND

Endoprostheses (EPC) are often utilized for reconstruction of the proximal humerus with either hemiarthroplasty (HA) or reverse arthroplasty (RA) constructs. RA constructs have improved outcomes in patients with primary lesions, but no studies have compared techniques in metastatic disease. The aim of this study is to compare functional outcomes and complications between HA and RA constructs in patients undergoing endoprosthetic reconstruction for proximal humerus metastases.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our institutional arthroplasty database to identify 66 (56% male; 38 HA and 28 RA) patients with a proximal humerus reconstruction for a non-primary malignancy. The majority (88%) presented with pathologic fracture, and the most common diagnosis was renal cell carcinoma (48%).

RESULTSS

Patients with RA reconstructions had better postoperative forward elevation (74° vs. 32°, p < 0.01) and higher functional outcome scores. HA patients had more complications (odds ratio 13, p < 0.01), with instability being the most common complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with nonprimary malignancies of the proximal humerus had improved functional outcomes and fewer complications after undergoing reconstruction with a reverse EPC compared to a HA EPC. Preference for reverse EPC should be given in patients with good prognosis and ability to complete postoperative rehabilitation.

Palliative Care Needs of Patients with Musculoskeletal Malignancies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to assess the literature regarding current treatment options for the palliative care of patients with advanced musculoskeletal malignancies whether primary or metastatic.

RECENT FINDINGS

The inclusion of specialized palliative care physicians, in conjunction with surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, and mental health professionals, results in better control of end-of-life symptoms in both children and adults with terminal musculoskeletal malignancies. The palliative care of patients with musculoskeletal malignancies requires a multi-disciplinary team and benefits from specialized palliative care physicians. The unique impacts of musculoskeletal malignancies on ambulation and independence creates additional mental and physical burdens on patients and care-takers alike. Palliative care should focus on preserving ambulatory function and patient independence, in addition to managing chronic pain and other end-of-life symptoms common to these malignancies.

Dual plating in the metastatic distal humerus: Benefits may outweigh the risks

Background

Impending and complete pathologic fractures of the distal humerus are rare complications of metastatic cancer. Surgical treatment aims to quickly restore function and minimize pain. Plate and screw fixation (PSF) is a common method for addressing these lesions, but unlike in orthopaedic trauma, there are no clear guidelines for best management. While dual PSF theoretically provides better support and reduces the chance of reoperation due to tumor progression, single PSF is currently the more common choice.

Materials and methods

Between March 2008 and September 2021, 35 consecutive patients who underwent PSF for distal humerus metastasis or multiple myeloma were retrospectively reviewed. The proportion of patients who developed various postoperative complications, including infection, nonunion, deep vein thrombosis, tumor progression, and radial nerve palsy, as well as those requiring reoperation, was calculated. Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson's chi-squared, and Fisher's exact test were used to investigate differences between the single and dual PSF groups with statistical significance defined as p ≤ 0.05.

Results

There was no significant difference (p = 0.259) in revision rate, although 3 of 21 (14.3 %) single PSF patients required reoperation compared to 0 of 14 (0.0 %) dual PSF patients. The revisions were performed in one patient due to refracture and in two patients due to tumor progression. Although not statistically significant, a larger percentage of single PSF patients developed a postoperative complication compared to dual PSF patients [odds ratio 0.42 (95 % confidence interval 0.071 to 2.5); p = 0.431]. Single PSF did lead to shorter operative time compared to dual PSF [p < 0.001].

Conclusion

Dual PSF is non-inferior to single PSF and potentially results in fewer reoperations and postoperative complications in distal humerus pathologic lesions, although it leads to longer operative time. The current study is limited by small sample size due to the rarity of distal humerus metastatic lesions.

Durability of intercalary endoprosthesis for humeral reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

The humerus is a common site of metastases and primary tumors. For some patients with a segmental defect and/or diaphyseal cortical destruction a cemented intercalary device may provide a more reliable construct, however data on their use is limited.

METHODS

We reviewed 43 (28 male and 15 female) patients treated with an intercalary humeral spacer at a single tertiary referral center between 1989 and 2022. Humeral lesions were most commonly secondary to metastatic disease (n = 29, 68%), with 25 (58%) patients presenting with a pathologic fracture. Mean age and body mass index were 66 years and 27.9 kg/m2 . First generation taper joint device were used in 22 patients and second-generation lap device in 21 patients.

RESULTS

Following reconstruction the 2-year overall survival was 30%. Mechanical complications occurred in 11 patients, most commonly aseptic loosening (n = 6, 14%). With death as a competing risk, the cumulative incidence of mechanical failure was 28% at 2-years postoperative. Following the procedure, mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores was 70% and mean shoulder elevation was 87°.

CONCLUSION

Reconstruction of the humeral diaphysis with an intercalary endoprosthesis provides restoration of function of the upper extremity, however, is associated with one in four patients having mechanical failure.

Intramedullary Nail vs. Plate Fixation for Pathological Humeral Shaft Fracture: An Updated Narrative Review and Meta-Analysis of Surgery-Related Factors

(1) Background: Pathological humeral shaft fracture (PHSF) is a frequently observed clinical manifestation in the later stages of tumor metastasis. Surgical interventions are typically recommended to alleviate pain and restore functionality. Intramedullary nail fixation (INF) or plate fixation (PF) is currently recommended for the treatment of PHSF. However, there is still no standard for optimal surgical treatment. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis comparing the clinical outcomes of INF with PF for PHSF treatment. (2) Methods: We conducted searches in databases, such as Scopus, EMBASE, and PubMed, for studies published prior to May 2023. In total, nine studies with 485 patients were reviewed. (3) Results: There were no significant differences noted in the incidence of fixation failure, local recurrence, wound complication or overall complication. However, the INF group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of postoperative radial nerve palsy than the PF group (OR, 5.246; 95% CI, 1.548-17.774; p = 0.008). A subgroup analysis indicated that there were no statistically significant differences in fixation failure or local recurrence among subgroups categorized by the design of intramedullary nail. (4) Conclusions: Considering the short life expectancy of end-stage patients, the choice of surgical method depends on the patient's individual condition, fracture and lesion patterns, the surgeon's experience, and comprehensive discussion between the surgeon and patient.

Intramedullary nailing versus cemented plate for treating metastatic pathological fracture of the proximal humerus: a comparison study and literature review

BACKGROUND

Pathological fracture of the humerus causes severe pain, limited use of the hand, and decreased quality of life. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of intramedullary nailing and locking plate in treating metastatic pathological fractures of the proximal humerus.

METHODS

This retrospective comparison study included 45 patients (22 male, 23 female) with proximal humerus metastatic pathological fractures who underwent surgical treatment between 2011 and 2022. All data were collected from medical records and were analyzed retrospectively. Seventeen cases underwent intramedullary nailing plus cement augmentation, and 28 cases underwent locking plate plus cement augmentation. The main outcomes were pain relief, function scores, and complications.

RESULTS

Among 45 patients with mean age 61.7 ± 9.7 years, 23 (51.1%) had multiple bone metastases, and 28 (62.2%) were diagnosed with impending fractures. The nailing group had significantly lower blood loss [100 (60-200) versus 500 (350-600) ml, p < 0.001] and shorter hospital stay (8.4 ± 2.6 versus 12.3 ± 4.3 days, p < 0.001) than the plating group. Average follow-up time of the nailing group was 12 months and 16.5 months for the plating group. The nailing group had higher visual analog scale (VAS) scores than the plating group, indicating greater pain relief with nailing [7 (6-8) versus 6 (5-7), p = 0.01]. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional scores [28 (27-29) versus 27 (26.5-28.5), p = 0.23] were comparable between groups. No complications, local recurrence, or revision surgery were reported until the last follow-up in either group. However, one case in the plating group had a humeral head collapse and fragmentation without needing revision surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Intramedullary nailing with cement augmentation is a viable option for treating proximal humerus metastatic pathological fracture, providing rigid fixation and better pain relief resulting in earlier mobility to optimize functional outcomes. Less invasive procedure with less blood loss and shorter hospital stay also benefits patients. Level of evidence Level II. Trial registration statement Not applicable.

Intramedullary Nailing with and without the Use of Bone Cement for Impending and Pathologic Fractures of the Humerus in Multiple Myeloma and Metastatic Disease

Although intramedullary nailing (IMN) is considered the standard of care for the surgical management of most femur metastatic diseases, the optimal treatment of metastatic humeral impending and/or pathologic fractures is still debatable. Moreover, the use of cemented humeral nails has not been thoroughly studied, and only a few small series have compared their results with uncemented nails. The purpose of this study was to compare the (1) survivorship, (2) functional outcomes, and (3) perioperative complications in patients receiving cemented versus uncemented humerus IMN for impending or complete pathologic fractures resulting from metastatic disease or multiple myeloma. We retrospectively reviewed 100 IMNs in 82 patients, of which 53 were cemented and 47 were uncemented. With a mean survival of 10 months (Cemented: 8.3 months vs. Uncemented: 11.6 months, p = 0.34), the mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores increased from 42.4% preoperatively (Cemented: 40.2% vs. Uncemented: 66.7%, p = 0.01) to 89.2% at 3 months postoperatively (Cemented: 89.8% vs. Uncemented: 90.9%, p = 0.72) for the overall group (p < 0.001). Both cohorts yielded comparable complication rates (overall [22.6% vs. 19.1%)], surgical ([11.3% vs. 4.3%], and medical [13.2% vs. 14.9%], all p > 0.05), but estimated blood loss was significantly higher in the cemented group (203 mL vs. 126 mL, p = 0.003). Thus, intramedullary nailing, with and without cement augmentation in select patients, is a relatively safe and effective therapeutic modality for metastatic humeral disease with similar clinical outcomes and acceptable complication rates. While controlling for possible selection bias, larger-scale, higher-level studies are warranted to validate our results.

Management of Proximal Humeral Oncologic Lesions

The proximal humerus is a common location for primary tumors, benign lesions, and metastatic disease. Advances in neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy have allowed for limb-salvage surgery in most of the cases. There are numerous of options for surgical management of proximal humerus lesions and the decision to pursue one over another depends on factors such as age, comorbidities, pathology, location within the proximal humerus, planned resection margins/size of defect, and bone quality. Long-term outcomes for these techniques tend to be retrospective comparative studies, with recent studies highlighting the improved outcomes of reverse total shoulders.

Intramedullary nailing for pathological fractures of the proximal humerus caused by multiple myeloma: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Multiple myeloma (MM) bone disease is indicative of MM, and reduces patient life quality. In addition to oncological, antineoplastic systemic therapy, surgical therapy in patients with MM is an essential treatment within the framework of supportive therapy measures and involves orthopedic tumor surgery. Nevertheless, there are few reports on intramedullary (IM) nailing in the treatment of MM-induced proximal humeral fracture to prevent fixation loss. We here describe a case of pathological fracture of the proximal humerus caused by MM successfully treated with IM nailing without removal of tumors and a review of the current literature.

CASE SUMMARY

A 64-year-old male patient complaining of serious left shoulder pain and limited movement was admitted. The patient was finally diagnosed with MM (IgAλ, IIIA/II). After treatment of the pathological fracture with IM nailing, the patient's function recovered and his pain was rapidly relieved. Histopathological examination demonstrated plasma cell myeloma. The patient received chemotherapy in the Hematology Department. The humeral fracture displayed good union during the 40-mo follow-up, with complete healing of the fracture, and the clinical outcome was satisfactory. At the most recent follow-up, the patient's function was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score, which was 29.

CONCLUSION

Early surgery should be performed for the fracture of the proximal humerus caused by MM. IM nailing can be used without removal of tumors. Bone cement augmentation for bone defects and local adjuvant therapy can also be employed.

Longitudinal survival trends of patients with cancer with surgically managed appendicular metastatic bone disease: systematic review

BACKGROUND

Advances in systemic cancer therapies have improved survival for patients with metastatic carcinoma; however, it is unknown whether these advances have translated to improved survival for patients with appendicular metastatic bone disease (A-MBD) after orthopedic interventions. We conducted a study to evaluate the trend in overall survival for patients who underwent orthopedic surgery for A-MBD between 1968 and 2018.

METHODS

A systematic search of Embase and Medline to identify studies published since 1968 evaluating patients treated with orthopedic surgery for A-MBD was conducted for a previously published scoping review. We used a meta-regression model to assess the longitudinal trends in 1-, 2- and 5-year overall survival between 1968 and 2018. The midpoint year of patient inclusion for each study was used for analysis. We categorized primary tumour types into a tumour severity score according to prognosis for a further meta-regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 5747 studies identified, 103 were retained for analysis. Meta-regression analysis showed no significant effect of midpoint study year on survival across all time points. There was no effect of the weighted average of tumour severity scores for each study on 1-year survival over time.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant improvement in overall survival between 1968 and 2018 for patients with A-MBD who underwent orthopedic surgery. Orthopedic intervention remains a poor prognostic variable for patients with MBD. This finding highlights the need for improved collection of prospective data in this population to identify patients with favourable survival outcomes who may benefit from personalized oncologic surgical interventions.

Morbidity and mortality of surgically treated pathologic humerus fractures compared to native humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

Despite an increasing prevalence of patients sustaining pathologic fractures of neoplastic origin, few studies have investigated 30-day postoperative complication profiles after surgical treatment of pathologic humerus fractures. The purposes of this study were to use a large nationally representative database to determine short-term complication profiles after surgical treatment of pathologic humerus fractures and assess how these complications compared with more commonly studied native humerus fractures.

METHODS

Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we identified 30,866 patients who underwent surgical treatment for either pathologic (n = 449) or native humerus fractures (n = 30,417) from 2007 to 2017. Thirty-day postoperative complication profiles were ascertained and compared between the 2 groups using χ² analyses. Three logistic regression models were then performed to determine which complications were primarily attributable to the pathologic fracture itself vs. the increased comorbidity burden faced by these patients.

RESULTS

Patients with pathologic humerus fractures experienced significantly higher rates of death (6.0% vs. 0.3%, P < .001), serious adverse events (12.2% vs. 3.7%, P < .001), minor complications (15.8% vs. 4.8%, P < .001), extended postoperative lengths of stay (42.3% vs. 21.3%, P < .001), discharge to facilities (22.3% vs. 13.5%, P < .001), and readmissions (14.8% vs. 3.4%, P < .001) compared with patients with native humerus fractures. With respect to specific complications, patients with pathologic fractures were at significantly higher risk of pulmonary complications (1.3% vs. 0.3%, P < .001), renal complications (0.7% vs. 0.2%, P = .007), thromboembolic complications (1.6% vs. 0.6%, P = .01), and transfusions (15.1% vs. 4.1%, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

After surgical treatment, patients with pathologic humerus fractures had significantly higher complication rates compared with native humerus fractures, suggesting that guidelines and treatment algorithms for native humerus fractures may not be generalizable for those of pathologic origin. These findings have significant implications for preoperative patient counseling and may be used to negotiate higher reimbursement rates for these patients given a significantly higher morbidity and mortality than was previously described in literature. Postoperatively, orthopedic surgeons should closely monitor patients with pathologic humerus fractures for deep vein thrombosis, renal complications, and pulmonary complications, use blood-sparing techniques, and employ a multidisciplinary approach to help manage and prevent a more heterogeneous profile of postsurgical complications.

Isolated distal ulnar bone metastasis from lung squamous cell carcinoma: an extremely rare case report

Bone metastases commonly occur in patients with lung cancer. However, metastasis from primary lung carcinoma to the bone below the knee and elbow is rarely encountered. We herein describe a man who developed an isolated distal ulnar bone metastasis originating from lung squamous cell carcinoma. A 68-year-old man presented to our orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation of a rapidly progressing tumor over his right wrist area. Tenderness with increased local temperature was noted, and the tumor was firm in consistency, oval-shaped, and 7 × 5 cm in size. Magnetic resonance imaging and radiographic imaging revealed an osteolytic tumor in his distal ulnar shaft. A 99m Tc-phosphate bone scan showed that this tumor was isolated and newly observed compared with the previous bone scan findings during initial diagnosis. Bone tumor biopsy confirmed metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. Segmental tumor resection with cementation was subsequently performed. This rare case report of an isolated ulnar metastasis includes detailed descriptions of the clinical, radiographic, and pathological features of the tumor.

Stabilisation of pathological humerus fractures using cement augmented plating: A case series

The humerus is the second most common long bone for metastatic tumours. These lesions result in weakened bone architecture and increased fracture risk with patients suffering pain, loss of function and diminished quality of life, often when life expectancy is short. Fractures or impending fractures require surgical stabilisation to relieve pain and restore function for the remainder of the patient's life without the need for further surgery. Conventional management of these lesions in the humerus is intramedullary nailing, however there are issues with this technique, particularly regarding rigidity of fixation. Advances in contoured locking plates have led to the development of different stabilisation techniques. The preferred technique in our regional oncology unit is curettage of the tumour and plating, augmented with cement to fill the defect and restore the structural morphology. In this case series we evaluate the survivorship of the construct and the clinical outcomes in patients who had an established or prospective pathological humeral fracture treated with curettage and cement augmented plating, since 2010. We identified 19 patients; 17 had metastasis and 2 myeloma of whom 15 had established fractures and four impending. The mean age at surgery was 69 years (51-86), and mean time since surgery 3.2 years. Overall mean follow up time was 20 months with 14 patients deceased and 5 surviving. There was 100% survivorship of the construct with no mechanical failures and no re-operations. There were no post-operative wound complications. Excellent early pain control was achieved in 18 patients with one experiencing pain controlled by analgesia. Function was assessed using Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) and was satisfactory; mean 79/100 (range 72-85). Cement augmented plating for pathological humerus fractures is a suitable alternative to intramedullary nailing and addresses several of the concerns with that technique. It provides immediate rigidity and allows early unrestricted function.

Management of Metastatic Disease of the Upper Extremity

Metastatic disease is the most common pathologic cause of bone destruction, and the upper extremity is frequently involved. This location presents many surgical challenges, but there have been several recent implant and technique-related advances that have improved outcomes. Patients can be treated nonsurgically, with radiation or with surgery, depending on patient characteristics, signs/symptoms, primary diagnosis, location, and extent of bone destruction. Most locations in the upper extremity besides the humerus can be treated nonsurgically or with radiation. This is also true of the humerus, but when surgery is indicated, plate fixation is acceptable when adequate proximal and distal cortical bone is present for screw purchase. Intramedullary nailing is used frequently in metastatic humeral disease as well, especially in the diaphysis. When extensive destruction or disease progression precludes internal fixation, a resection with endoprosthetic reconstruction can be considered. Oncologic hemiarthroplasty endoprosthetics still have a role, but reverse shoulder designs are beginning to show improved function. Humeral prosthesis designs are continuing to improve, and are becoming more modular, with custom implants still playing a role in certain challenging scenarios.

Bone metastases

Bone is the most frequent site for metastasis for many cancers, notably for tumours originating in the breast and the prostate. Tumour cells can escape from the primary tumour site and colonize the bone microenvironment. Within the bone, these disseminated tumour cells, as well as those arising in the context of multiple myeloma, may assume a state of dormancy, remaining quiescent for years before resuming proliferation and causing overt metastasis, which causes bone destruction via activation of osteoclast-mediated osteolysis. This structural damage can lead to considerable morbidity, including pain, fractures and impaired quality of life. Although treatment of bone metastases and myeloma bone disease is rarely curative, disease control is often possible for many years through the use of systemic anticancer treatments on a background of multidisciplinary supportive care. This care should include bone-targeted agents to inhibit tumour-associated osteolysis and prevent skeletal morbidity as well as use of appropriate local treatments such as radiation therapy, orthopaedic surgery and specialist palliative care to minimize the impact of metastatic bone disease on physical functioning. In this Primer, we provide an overview of the clinical features, the pathophysiology and the specific treatment approaches to prevent and treat bone metastases from solid tumours as well as myeloma bone disease.

Retrospective, multicenter, observational study of 112 surgically treated cases of humerus metastasis

INTRODUCTION

The humerus is the second most common site for metastasis in the peripheral skeleton. These humeral metastases (HM) occur in the midshaft in 42% to 61% of cases and theproximal humerus in 32% to 45% of cases. They are often secondary to primary breast (17-31%), kidney (13-15%) or lung (11-24%) cancer. The optimal surgical treatment between intramedullary (IM) procedures, fixation or arthroplasty is still being debated.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that fixation and/or arthroplasty are safe and effective options for controlling pain and improving the patients' function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2004 and 2016, 11 French hospitals included 112 continuous cases of HM in 54 men (49%) and 57 women (51%). The average age was 63.7±13.4 years (30-94). The HM occurred in the context of primary breast (30%), lung (23%) or kidney (21%) cancers. The HM was proximal in 35% of cases, midshaft in 59% and distal in 7% of cases. Surgery was required in 69% of patients because of a pathological fracture. The surgical procedure consisted of bundle pinning, plate fixation, arthroplasty or locked IM nailing in 6%, 11%, 14% and 69% of patients, respectively.

RESULTS

Seven patients (6%) had to be reoperated due to surgical site complications including two infections and four fractures (periprosthetic or away from implant). Twelve patients (11%) experienced a general complication. The overall survival was 16.7 months, which was negatively and significantly impacted by the occurrence of a fracture, a diaphyseal location and the type of primary cancer. At the final assessment, 75% had normal or subnormal function and more than 90% were pain-free or had less pain. The final function was not related to the occurrence of a fracture or etiology of the metastasis. In epiphyseal and metaphyseal HM, there was a trend to better function after shoulder arthroplasty than after plate fixation or IM nailing.

CONCLUSIONS

Our initial hypothesis was confirmed. Our findings were consistent with those of other published studies. Based on our findings, we recommend using static locked IM nailing with cementoplasty for mid-shaft lesions and modular arthroplasty for destructive epiphyseal or metaphyso-epiphyseal lesions. The criteria for assessing humeral fracture risk should be updated to allow the introduction of a preventative procedure, which contributes to better survival.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective study.

Distally Unlocked Intramedullary Nailing With Cement Fixation for Impending and Actual Pathologic Humerus Fractures: A Retrospective Case Series

The humerus is a common site of metastatic tumor involvement and pathologic fracture. Intramedullary nailing is a treatment option that offers the benefit of protecting a long segment of diseased bone, but it is not without complications. This study aims to examine the survival, functional outcomes, and complications of patients treated with cement-augmented unlocked intramedullary nailing for actual and impending pathologic fractures of the humeral shaft.

Evaluating the reoperation rate and hardware durability of three stabilizing implants for 105 malignant pathologic humerus fractures

INTRODUCTION

Many patients sustaining a malignant pathologic humerus fracture (MPHF) elect for surgical stabilization. Complications prompting reoperation can occur, leading to additional quality of life and financial cost. One common event preceding reoperation is a broken implant (BI). The purpose of this study was to identify the rate of reoperation following surgical stabilization of MPHF with three techniques - photodynamic bone stabilization (PBS), intramedullary nail (IMN), and cemented plate fixation (CPF) - and estimate to what extent improved implant durability might prevent reoperation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective data collection was performed, identifying 105 procedures (100 patients) who underwent non-articular MPHF surgery from 2010-2016: 19 PBS, 65 IMN, 21 CPF. All patients were followed for at least two years or until death.

RESULTS

Reoperation rates were similar at one year (10.5%,6.2%,4.8%, p = 737), two years (15.8%,6.2%,9.5%, p = 375), and final evaluation (15.8%,7.7%,14.3%, p = 248). The rate of BI for PBS, IMN, and CPF was 10.5%,0%, and 4.8% (p = 049 PBS/IMN) at one year, 15.8%,0%, and 9.5% (p = 010 PBS/IMN) at two years, and 15.8%,0%, and 14.3% (p = 010 IMN/PBS, p = 013 IMN/CPF) at final evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Reoperation rate was not significantly different at any time point. However, IMN surgery resulted in the lowest rate of broken implants (zero), statistically significant versus PBS at all time periods and versus CPF at final follow-up. PBS may eventually offer selected advantages for MPHF management, but current data suggests fragility must be thoughtfully considered.

Revision rate of reconstructions in surgically treated diaphyseal metastases of bone

INTRODUCTION

Skeletal metastases can weaken the bone, necessitating surgery, and surgical treatment options vary. The aim of this study was to investigate the revision rate of reconstructions in surgically treated diaphyseal skeletal metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2000 and 2018 at Helsinki and Tampere university hospitals in Finland, a total of 164 cases with diaphyseal skeletal metastases were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Tumor location was humerus, femur, and tibia in 106 (65%), 53 (32%), and 5 (3.0%) cases, respectively. A total of 82 (50%) cases were treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN), 73 (45%) with IMN and cementation, and 9 (5%) with another technique.

RESULTS

In the upper extremity, implant survival (IS) was 96.4% at 1, 2, and 5 years; in the lower extremity, it was 83.8%, 69.1%, and 57.6% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. Lower extremity IS for impending lesions was 100% at 1, 2, and 5 years, and in cases operated for true pathologic fracture, it was 71.6%, 42.9%, and 21.5% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. In IMN cases without cement, the complication rate was 16% (13/82) when compared to 6% (4/73) in IMN cases with cementation.

DISCUSSION

We would advocate for early intervention in patients with metastatic bone disease affecting the femur rather that watchful waiting with the risk for fracture and the need for urgent intervention. However, this choice must be balanced against the underlying risk of surgical intervention in a potentially fragile population with often limited prognoses.

Principles of Management of Extremity Skeletal Metastasis

Understanding the epidemiology of extremity skeletal metastasis and the factors deciding the treatment decision-making are essential in developing a diagnostic and treatment strategy. This leads to optimum care and reduces disease-related burden. With the evolution of medical, radiation therapy, and surgical methods, cancer care has improved the quality of life for patients with improved survival and functional status in patients with skeletal metastasis. Based on the currently available literature, we have described a step-wise evaluation and management strategy of metastatic extremity bone disease. The present review article addresses various aspects and related controversies related to evaluation, staging, and treatment options in the management of extremity bone metastasis. This article also highlights the role of multidisciplinary involvement in management of extremity skeletal metastasis.

Intercalary prosthetic reconstruction for pathologic diaphyseal humeral fractures due to metastatic tumors: outcomes and improvements

BACKGROUND

There is a high aseptic loosening rate for intercalary prosthetic reconstruction for malignant tumors. We evaluated outcomes and complications of intercalary prosthetic reconstruction for pathologic diaphyseal humeral fractures and report the application of an extracortical plate that can prevent early loosening.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 9 patients who underwent intercalary prosthetic reconstruction for pathologic diaphyseal humeral fractures secondary to metastatic diseases between March 2011 and September 2017. Procedures were intercalary prosthetic reconstruction in 4 patients (group A) and an implanted intercalary prosthesis with a plate in 5 patients (group B). Operative time, blood loss, complications, and functional score were noted.

RESULTS

Mean operative time for group A and B was 80 ± 14 and 94 ± 5 minutes, respectively; blood loss was 115 ± 26 and 120 ± 31 mL respectively; and follow-up was 11.5 ± 10.1 and 6.2 ± 4.4 months, respectively. At final follow-up, all patients in group A had died, and 3 patients in group B had died; mean survival was 11.5 ± 10.1 and 9.3 ± 1.2 months, respectively. The mean postoperative Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 24.5 ± 2.4 and 26.2 ± 0.8, respectively. The mean postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 85.5 ± 4.20 and 87 ± 2.6, respectively. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups (P > .05). There was 1 aseptic loosening and 1 radial nerve injury in group A; there were no complications in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

The intercalary prosthesis yielded satisfactory outcomes in patients with pathologic diaphyseal humeral fractures, and an extracortical plate can prevent early aseptic loosening.

Diagnostic algorithm, prognostic factors and surgical treatment of metastatic cancer diseases of the long bones and spine

Oncological management of skeletal metastases has changed dramatically in the last few decades. A significant number of patients survive for many years with their metastases.

Surgeons are more active and the technical repertoire is broader, from plates to intramedullary devices to (tumour) endoprostheses.

The philosophy of treatment should be different in the case of a trauma-related fracture and a pathological fracture. A proper algorithm for establishing a diagnosis and evaluation of prognostic factors helps in planning the surgical intervention.

The aim of palliative surgery is usually to eliminate pain and to allow the patient to regain his/her mobility as well as to improve the quality of life through minimally invasive techniques using life-long durable devices.

In a selected group of patients with an oncologically controlled primary tumour site and a solitary bone metastasis with positive prognostic factors, which meet the criteria for radical excision (approximately 10% to 15% of the cases), a promising three to five years of survival may be achieved, especially in cases of metastases from breast and kidney cancer.

Spinal metastases require meticulous evaluation because decisions on treatment mostly depend on the tumour type, segmental stability, the patient’s symptoms and general state of health.

Advanced radiotherapy combined with minimally invasive surgical techniques (minimally invasive stabilisation and separation surgery) provides durable local control with a low complication rate in a number of patients.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:372-381.

Oncologic Outcome and Quality of Life After Hindquarter Amputation for Sarcoma: Is it Worth it?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Hindquarter amputations for bone or soft tissue sarcoma cause a high degree of disability. The goal of this study was to analyze oncologic outcome and quality of life after resection in order to better select patients who are more likely to benefit from this operation.

METHODS

Patients treated with a hindquarter amputation between 1989 and 2015 for a bone or soft tissue sarcoma were selected from our database. Clinical and histopathological features were analyzed for their prognostic value using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard analysis. In addition, performance status, ambulatory status, and pain were assessed from the hospital charts for patients surviving longer than 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

Overall, 78 patients underwent a hindquarter amputation for sarcoma. The median hospital stay was 24 days and 49% of patients had wound complications. In-hospital mortality was 6%. Overall survival for patients with metastases at presentation was significantly worse than patients with localized disease only (p = 0.001, 5-year survival 41 vs. 0%). For patients treated for localized disease, the combination of age >65 years and tumor size ≥15 cm was significantly correlated with worse metastasis-free survival (p = 0.003) and overall survival (p = 0.01). In particular, patients younger than 65 years of age who survived more than 1 year had an acceptable performance status, with reasonable pain levels and mobility.

CONCLUSION

Younger patients are more likely to benefit from hindquarter ampuations in terms of survival and functionality; however, for older patients with large tumors, a hindquarter amputation might not be beneficial.

Treatment of pathological fractures of the long bones

Bone metastases of the long bones often lead to pain and pathological fractures. Local treatment consists of radiotherapy or surgery. Treatment strategies are strongly based on the risk of the fracture and expected survival.

Diagnostic work-up consists of CT and biopsy for diagnosis of the primary tumour, bone scan or PET-CT for dissemination status, patient history and blood test for evaluation of general health, and biplanar radiograph or CT for evaluation of the involved bone.

A bone lesion with an axial cortical involvement of >30 mm has a high risk of fracturing and should be stabilised surgically.

Expected survival should be based on primary tumour type, performance score, and presence of visceral and cerebral metastases.

Radiotherapy is the primary treatment for symptomatic lesions without risk of fracturing. The role of post-operative radiotherapy remains unclear.

Main surgical treatment options consist of plate fixation, intramedullary nails and (endo) prosthesis. The choice of modality depends on the localisation, extent of involved bone, and expected survival. Adjuvant cement should be considered in large lesions for better stabilisation.

Cite this article: Willeumier JJ, van der Linden YM, van de Sande MAJ, Dijkstra PDS. Treatment of pathological fractures of the long bones. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:136–145. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000008.

Intramedullary Nailing for Pathological Fractures of the Proximal Humerus

BACKGROUND

Endoprosthetic reconstruction is widely applied for pathological fractures of the proximal humerus; however, functional impairment is usually unsatisfactory. The aims of the current study are to evaluate the reliability of interlocking intramedullary (IM) nailing with cement augmentation as a fixation method in proximal humeral lesions and to assess functional outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed 32 patients with pathological fractures of the proximal humerus who underwent interlocking IM nailing and cement augmentation. Functional scores and pain relief were assessed as outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 14.2 months. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional score and Karnofsky performance status scale score were 27.7 and 75.6, respectively. Improvement of pain assessed using the visual analogue scale was 6.2 on average. Thirty-one patients (97%) experienced no pain after surgery. The mean ranges of forward flexion and abduction were 115° and 112.6°, respectively. All patients achieved stability and had no local recurrence without failure of fixation until the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Proximal interlocking IM nailing with cement augmentation appears to be a reliable treatment option for pathological or impending fractures of the proximal humerus in selected patients with metastatic tumors, even with extensive bone destruction.

Complications after surgery for metastatic humeral lesions

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of surgical outcome and its predictors helps inform patients and aids in surgical decision-making. We aimed to assess the outcome-reoperation and systemic complication rate-of surgery for humeral metastases, myeloma, or lymphoma. Our null hypothesis was that there are no factors associated with these outcomes.

METHODS

We included 295 consecutive patients in this retrospective study: 134 (45%) proximal, 131 (44%) diaphyseal, and 30 (10%) distal impending or pathologic fractures. Proximal lesions were treated by intramedullary nailing (43%, n = 57), prosthesis (34%, n = 46), plate-screw fixation (22%, n = 30), and a combination (n = 1). Diaphyseal lesions were treated by intramedullary nailing (69%, n = 91), plate-screw fixation (30%, n = 39), and a combination (n = 1). Distal lesions were treated by plate-screw fixation (97%, n = 29) and intramedullary nailing (3.3%, n = 1).

RESULTS

We found 25 (8.5%) reoperations, and 17 (5.8%) patients had 18 systemic complications: pneumonia (3.7%, n = 11), pulmonary embolism (1.3%, n = 4), sepsis (0.68%, n = 2), and fat embolism (0.34%, n = 1). No factors were independently associated with reoperation. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that favorable cancer status (i.e., a higher modified Bauer score: odds ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.29-0.80; P = .005) was independently associated with a decreased systemic complication rate.

CONCLUSION

Poor cancer status was an independent predictor of postoperative systemic complications. This could help inform the patient and anticipate postoperative problems.

The investigation and management of suspected malignant pathological fractures: a review for the general orthopaedic surgeon

The management of malignant pathological fractures necessitates careful diagnostic work-up, pre-operative investigation, planning and multidisciplinary input from specialists in the fields of radiology, pathology, oncology, trauma and orthopaedics. Malignant and non-malignant conditions including metabolic disorders, benign tumours and pharmacological therapies can be implicated. The majority of patients who present with suspected pathological fractures will be managed by general orthopaedic and trauma surgeons rather than specialists in orthopaedic oncology. Skeletal metastases can result in considerable morbidity and predispose to pathological fractures. With advances in the medical management of malignancy, life expectancy in cancer patients is increasing, leading to an increasing risk of skeletal metastasis and the potential for pathological fractures. Conventional modes of trauma fixation for pathological fractures may not be appropriate. The aim of this review is to outline diagnostic and management strategies for patients who present with a long bone fracture that is potentially pathological in nature.

Management of proximal humerus fractures in adults

The majority of proximal humerus fractures are low-energy osteoporotic injuries in the elderly and their incidence is increasing in the light of an ageing population. The diversity of fracture patterns encountered renders objective classification of prognostic value challenging. Non-operative management has been associated with good functional outcomes in stable, minimally displaced and certain types of displaced fractures. Absolute indications for surgery are infrequent and comprise compound, pathological, multi-fragmentary head-splitting fractures and fracture dislocations, as well as those associated with neurovascular injury. A constantly expanding range of reconstructive and replacement options however has been extending the indications for surgical management of complex proximal humerus fractures. As a result, management decisions are becoming increasingly complicated, in an attempt to provide the best possible treatment for each individual patient, that will successfully address their specific fracture configuration, comorbidities and functional expectations. Our aim was to review the management options available for the full range of proximal humerus fractures in adults, along with their specific advantages, disadvantages and outcomes.

Outcome of operative treatment of metastatic fractures of the humerus: a systematic review of twenty three clinical studies

PURPOSE

This systematic review aims to provide an overview of functional outcome and complications after surgery for metastatic humerus fractures.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in September 2013 using the Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane database. We included 23 studies reporting on 29 treatment arms: intramedullary nailing (19 studies, 596 cases), plate-screw fixation (five studies, 150 cases), endoprosthetic reconstruction (three studies, 81 cases), and diaphysis prosthesis (two studies, 82 cases), totalling 909 fractures. There were 414 pathological and 56 impending fractures. In 439 cases the type of fracture was not specified. Four studies reported functional outcome.

RESULTS

Average Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score ranged from 64 to 79 (three studies, 100 patients) after intramedullary nailing, was 90 (one study, 24 patients) after plate-screw fixation, and 73 (one study, 30 patients) after endoprosthetic reconstruction. Re-operation rate varied from 0 to 10 % after intramedullary nailing (overall 4.4 %), 5-14 % after plate-screw fixation (overall 9.3 %), 14-16 % after diaphysis prosthesis (overall 14.6 %), and 0-6 % after endoprosthetic reconstruction (overall 2.5 %). Systemic complication rate varied between 0 and 26 % after intramedullary nailing (overall 2.2 %), between 0 and 6 % after plate-screw fixation (overall 4.8 %), was 0 % after endoprosthetic reconstruction, and varied between 0 and 16 % after diaphysis prosthesis (overall 9.7 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Reported complication rates help surgeons inform their patients and could aid in surgical decision making. Functional outcome, pain and quality of life were poorly reported. Patient reported outcomes are therefore an important direction for future research.

Treating metastatic disease: Which survival model is best suited for the clinic?

BACKGROUND

To avoid complications associated with under- or overtreatment of patients with skeletal metastases, doctors need accurate survival estimates. Unfortunately, prognostic models for patients with skeletal metastases of the extremities are lacking, and physician-based estimates are generally inaccurate.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We developed three types of prognostic models and compared them using calibration plots, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and decision curve analysis to determine which one is best suited for clinical use.

METHODS

A training set consisted of 189 patients who underwent surgery for skeletal metastases. We created models designed to predict 3- and 12-month survival using three methods: an Artificial Neural Network (ANN), a Bayesian Belief Network (BBN), and logistic regression. We then performed crossvalidation and compared the models in three ways: calibration plots plotting predicted against actual risk; area under the ROC curve (AUC) to discriminate the probability that a patient who died has a higher predicted probability of death compared to a patient who did not die; and decision curve analysis to quantify the clinical consequences of over- or undertreatment.

RESULTS

All models appeared to be well calibrated, with the exception of the BBN, which underestimated 3-month survival at lower probability estimates. The ANN models had the highest discrimination, with an AUC of 0.89 and 0.93, respectively, for the 3- and 12-month models. Decision analysis revealed all models could be used clinically, but the ANN models consistently resulted in the highest net benefit, outperforming the BBN and logistic regression models.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations suggest use of the ANN model to aid decisions about surgery would lead to better patient outcomes than other alternative approaches to decision making.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prognostic study. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The biomechanical effect of torsion on humeral shaft repair techniques for completed pathological fractures

In the presence of a tumor defect, completed humeral shaft fractures continue to be a major surgical challenge since there is no "gold standard" treatment. This is due, in part, to the fact that only one prior biomechanical study exists on the matter, but which only compared 2 repair methods. The current authors measured the humeral torsional performance of 5 fixation constructs for completed pathological fractures. In 40 artificial humeri, a 2-cm hemi-cylindrical cortical defect with a transverse fracture was created in the lateral cortex. Specimens were divided into 5 different constructs and tested in torsion. Construct A was a broad 10-hole 4.5-mm dynamic compression plate (DCP). Construct B was the same as A except that the screw holes and the tumor defect were filled with bone cement and the screws were inserted into soft cement. Construct C was the same as A except that the canal and tumor defect were filled with bone cement and the screws were inserted into dry cement. Construct D was a locked intramedullary nail inserted in the antegrade direction. Construct E was the same as D except that bone cement filled the defect. For torsional stiffness, construct C (4.45 ± 0.20 Nm/deg) was not different than B or E (p > 0.16), but was higher than A and D (p < 0.001). For failure torque, construct C achieved a higher failure torque (69.65 ± 5.35 Nm) than other groups (p < 0.001). For the failure angle, there were no differences between plating constructs A to C (p ≥ 0.11), except for B versus C (p < 0.05), or between nailing groups D versus E (p = 0.97), however, all plating groups had smaller failure angles than both nailing groups (p < 0.05). For failure energy, construct C (17.97 ± 3.59 J) had a higher value than other groups (p < 0.005), except for A (p = 0.057). Torsional failure always occurred in the bone in the classic "spiral" pattern. Construct C provided the highest torsional stability for a completed pathological humeral shaft fracture.