Internal Hemipelvectomy for Musculoskeletal Tumors—Indications and Options for Reconstruction

Abstract

Resection of all or part of the bony pelvis is commonly referred to as internal hemipelvectomy. This procedure is a common treatment for various localized primary tumors of the hemipelvis, and rarely for metastatic lesions. Options for reconstruction following tumor resection include allograft, allograft-prosthetic composite (APC), and endoprosthetic reconstruction. An alternative method of limb salvage following resection of the hemipelvis is resection arthroplasty. Controversy exists among musculoskeletal oncologists regarding the most durable and functional method of reconstruction. As primary musculoskeletal tumors involving the pelvis are rare, there are few well-designed studies from which to draw definitive conclusions. The purpose of this paper is to review the indications for internal hemipelvectomy and to examine the risks and benefits of the available reconstruction methods.