Total calcaneal reconstruction using a massive bone allograft and a distally pedicled osteocutaneous fibula flap: A novel technique to prevent amputation after calcaneal malignancy

Abstract

In patients with primary calcaneal malignancies, such as Ewing's sarcoma, radical treatment with amputation of the foot can result in serious functional impairment and chronic pain. Total calcanectomy followed by the reconstruction of the calcaneal defect offers an alternative treatment to amputation. Capanna etal. described a technique for successfully reconstructing long limb segmental bone defects using a free fibula flap placed within the intramedullary canal of an allograft. We present both a review of the literature on calcaneal reconstruction and describe how the principles of Capanna can be adapted to reconstruct the calcaneus. Total calcanectomy due to Ewing's sarcoma and the subsequent application of this novel reconstructive technique was performed in two young patients aged 5 and 16 years. The reconstruction was achieved by inserting a distally pedicled osteocutaneous fibula flap within the reamed canal of an allograft and placing the composite in the calcaneal defect. Reconstruction was successful with complete bone union between the allograft and the adjacent bone. There were no fractures or infections and both flaps survived. Functional outcome was assessed with a physiotherapist at a follow-up period of 2 years postoperatively, showing near-normal ambulance. This novel technique proved excellent as a limb salvage procedure, avoiding amputation, and offering a satisfactory oncological and functional outcome.