Treatment of bone tumor using external fixator

Abstract

External fixation has been widely used for the treatment of limb length discrepancy, deformity correction, and bone defect using distraction osteogenesis. We have been using this technique for the treatment of obstacles due to benign bone tumor and reconstruction after malignant bone tumor resection. In this paper, we introduce the usefulness of external fixation for the treatment of various benign bone tumors and limb salvage surgery for reconstruction after tumor resection using distraction osteogenesis, according to the tumor site. The advantages of external fixation for the treatment of benign bone tumor include a possibility of complex deformity correction without treating the tumor itself and reconstruction of the aggressive benign bone tumor as well as solid fixation with wires, even for weak bone due to benign bone tumors. The advantages of treating malignant bone tumor include regeneration of living bone of sufficient strength and durability, biological affinity, resistance against infection, and lifelong restored function. The disadvantages include delayed union at the docking site and pin-or wire-tract infection, patient's psychological stress, and the procedure is time consuming. We conclude that external fixation is very efficient for the treatment of benign and malignant bone tumors.