The induced membrane technique: A therapeutic option for managing bone defects in the upper extremity: Case series for 7 patients

Abstract

IntroductionThe reconstruction of bone defects of tumoral, infectious or traumatic origin of the limbs remains a major therapeutic challenge for the orthopedic surgeon and the patient, in terms of anatomical and functional results. Cases presentationWe report the case of 7 patients who underwent induced membrane bone reconstruction of the upper extremity, 5 patients with initial injury to the forearm, and 2 of our patients, to the humerus. In terms of function, the range of prono-supination was 125°, the range of wrist flexion-extension was 165°, and the range of elbow mobility was 170°. All patients achieved union at the time of the last follow-up. Two patients achieved union at 6 months, one patient at 5 months, one patient at 4 months, and three patients at 3 months. DiscussionThe induced membrane (IM) technique has been used for more than 30 years, and it's more and more widely accepted all over the world, as a simple and effective technique for reconstruction of segmental bone defects. The technique comprises 2 surgical stages, The first step involves the total excision of infected and non-viable lesions both bone and soft tissue until tissue with optimal vascularization "Paprika sign", then the strict instrumental stabilization of the skeleton and the realization of a covering flap if necessary, depending on the site of the initial injury initial lesion and the extent of the resection. ConclusionThe technique of induced membrane has proven its effectiveness in the management of bone loss.