Preliminary study of sternal tumor resection and reconstruction with titanium mesh

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical efficacy and complications of the surgical treatment of sternal tumor resection and titanium mesh reconstruction.Methods From 2008 January to 2012 June,there were 8 cases of sternal tumor patients in our hospital,including 5 male and 3 female,with an average age of 50.4 (37-66) years old.The histological morphology included 2 cases of chondrosarcoma,1 case of osteosarcoma,2 cases of malignant fibrous histiocytoma,eosinophilic granuloma in 1 case,and 2 cases of sternal metastasis of breast cancer.Tumor invasion sites included the sternal manubrium in 3 cases,the body in 2 cases,and both in 3 cases.All patients had undergone preoperative puncture or incision biopsy.8 cases of sternal tumor patients were treated with sternal tumor resection and reconstruction of the thorax using titanium mesh.The clinical effect and complications were retrospectively analyzed.Results All patients were followed up for 9 months to 4 years.The operations went well in all cases,with no intraoperative crisis or operative death.Deep wound hematoma occurred in 1 patient 1 week postoperatively,who healed 2 weeks after drainage and debridement.There was no abnormal breathing,subcutaneous emphysema,pneumothorax,infection or other complications in other cases.1 case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma died of lung metastasis at 9 months follow-up,and 1 died of liver metastasis at 14 months,while other patients got no tumor recurrence,with good thoracic shape,free breathing,no titanium mesh loosening,dyspnea,chest tightness,pain,or abnormal respiratory discomfort during follow-up period.The chest radiograph showed no chest deformity,no loosening or fracture of the fixation device.Conclusion Sternal tumor resection and reconstruction with titanium mesh has the advantages of good shaping effect,fewer complications,and simple operation,showing that titanium mesh is an ideal material for the reconstruction of sternum. Key words: Sternum; Bone neoplasms; Titanium; Reconstructive surgical procedures