Mid-term functional and radiological results of endoprosthetic reconstruction of proximal humeral bone tumors

Abstract

Objective: Functional and radiological mid-term results and survival of endoprosthetic reconstructions following proximal humeral resections were evaluated. Patients and Methods: Between 2006 and 2013, 29 patients (14M/15F) who underwent resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction for primary or metastatic tumors of the proximal humerus were retrospectively reviewed. Average age during surgery was 45 years (18-70 years) and the patients were followed-up for 20 months (6-57 months) on average. Patients with giant cell tumor of bone (2), chondrosarcoma (7), osteosarcoma (2), Ewing’s sarcoma (1), multipl myeloma (5) and metastatic carcinoma (12) underwent surgery. Functional parameters and proximal migration of the endoprosthesis were evaluated. Complications, revision rate and implant survival were investigated. Oncological follow-up was recorded. Results: The average Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score was 81% (50-93%), and average active/passive abduction and flexion of the shoulder was measured as 40°/90° and 50°/90° respectively. Follow-up radiographs demonstrated proximal migration of the endoprosthesis in 8 (27.5%) patients. None of the patients had infection, wound problem, aseptic loosening or implant failure. Except for one revision (3,5%) due to mechanical loosening, all reconstructions survived with the patients until the end of study. Conclusion: Endoprosthetic reconstruction following resection of primary or metastatic tumors of proximal humerus is a satisfactory treatment method with good functional results and low complication and high implant survival rates.