Composite ceramic graft in pediatric cavitary benign bone lesions

Abstract

Background In the pediatric age group, filling of some cavitary benign bone lesions (CBBL) may be problematic because of the limited available volume of autogenous iliac bone graft and donor site morbidity. Hence, synthetic materials are becoming an increasingly popular alternative or adjunct to bone graft in such situations. Patients and methods A total of 14 CBBL in 13 children (1.5-6.5 years) were managed by local curettage and the application of a composite ceramic bone substitute. The mean size of the cavitary bone lesion was 21.7 cm 2 . Patients were followed clinically and radiologically for an average of 39 months (26-51 months). Results Patients' function and parents' satisfaction with the procedure were graded as satisfactory end result in all patients. Bone healing (according to Neer et al. grading system) was 28.6% type 1, 64.3% type 2, and 7.1% type 3. Graft resorption and incorporation (according to Irwin's staging system) was 35.7% grade II and 64.3% grade III, at the latest follow-up (average 39 months). There were no major early or late postoperative complications. Conclusion Composite ceramic bone substitutes are a satisfactory option in the management of pediatric CBBL.