Autologous Iliac Crest Bone Graft Research Articles

Mesenchymal stem cells and spinal arthrodesis

Autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) remains the gold standard for bone augmentation during spinal arthrodesis. However, developments in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) and cellular bone matrix (CBM) technologies have directed significant interest of stem cell utilization in the setting of spinal fusion surgery. The aim of this article is to review the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the use of MSCs and CBMs in spinal arthrodesis procedures. In addition, the efficacy of various commercially available MSC preparations will be discussed. Finally, practice recommendations will be provided based upon the available evidence.

Interposition bone block arthrodesis for revision hallux metatarsophalangeal joint surgery: a case series.

The operative management of failed hallux metatarsophalangeal joint surgery can be difficult. There is often substantial shortening of the first ray. Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is one treatment option, but results in further shortening of the first ray. We present a large retrospective series of patients who had an interposition bone block arthrodesis procedure performed using a nonvascularized tricortical autologous iliac crest bone graft in an attempt to maintain first ray length. Twenty-four patients (25 feet) underwent this salvage procedure over a 10-year period. The mean follow-up period was 62 (range, 11-117) months. Indications included failed hallux valgus surgery, Keller's procedures, various other first metatarsal osteotomies, and failed arthrodesis procedures with shortening of the first ray. All patients had tricortical iliac crest grafts inserted into bony defects of mean length 10.7 (range, 8-15) mm. Fixation was achieved using either multiple wires or a low-profile plate. Mean lengthening was 4.4 (range, 0-8) mm. Three feet went on to nonunion requiring further revision surgery and at latest follow-up 2 had united. All patients underwent removal of a stabilizing Kirschner wire. Median patient-reported outcome score using the Foot and Ankle Disability Index was 84.6 (range, 37.5-97.1). These results suggest this procedure was successful in salvaging failed first ray surgery and prevented further shortening. We believe good results can be achieved, but care must be taken to ensure wound closure without excessive tension to permit wound healing. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Spinal fusion using adipose stem cells seeded on a radiolucent cage filler: a feasibility study of a single surgical procedure in goats.

To assess the feasibility of a one-step surgical concept, employing adipose stem cells (ASCs) and a novel degradable radiolucent cage filler (poly-L-lactide-co-caprolactone; PLCL), within polyetheretherketone cages in a stand-alone caprine spinal fusion model. A double-level fusion study was performed in 36 goats. Four cage filler groups were defined: (i) acellular PLCL, (ii) PLCL + SVF (freshly harvested stromal vascular fraction highly enriched in ASCs); (iii) PLCL + ASCs (cultured to homogeneity); and (iv) autologous iliac crest bone graft (ABG). Fusion was assessed after 3 and 6 months by radiography, micro-CT, biomechanics, and biochemical analysis of tissue formed inside the cage after 6 months. No adverse effects were observed in all groups. After 3 months, similar and low fusion rates were found. Segmental stability did not differ between groups in all tested directions. Micro-CT imaging revealed significantly higher amounts of mineralized tissue in the ABG group compared to all others. After 6 months, interbody fusion rates were: PLCL 53%, SVF 30%, ASC 43% and ABG 63%. A trend towards higher mineralized tissue content was found for the ABG group. Biochemical and biomechanical analyses revealed equal maturity of collagen cross-links and similar segmental stability between all groups. This study demonstrates the technical feasibility and safety of the one-step surgical procedure for spinal fusion for the first time. The radiolucent PLCL scaffold allowed in vivo monitoring of bone formation using plain radiography. Addition of stem cells to the PLCL scaffolds did not result in adverse effects, but did not enhance the rate and number of interbody fusions under the current conditions. A trend towards superior results with ABG was found. Further research is warranted to optimize the spinal fusion model for proper evaluation of both PLCL and stem cell therapy.

Induction of lumbar interbody fusion by autologous osteodifferenciated stem cells: Preliminary results

Autologous iliac crest bone graft has been long considered the gold standard for spine fusion but is associated with various adverse effects. New sources, such as adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) have recently emerged and demonstrated to be an alternative for bone tissue engineering. Our purpose is to analyze the effectiveness and safety of this implantation procedure. Between 2012 and 2013, eleven patients (4 men, 7 women) (AMSCs group: AMSCs + DBM, n = 3; control group: DBM alone, n = 8) with a lytic or degenerative spondylolisthesis underwent transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) assessment were completed preoperatively and at 12 months after surgery. Fusion status was assessed by radiologists. At 12 months, an early fusion rate of 67% (2/3) was achieved for the AMSCs group and 87.5% (7/8) for the control group. Mean VAS scores decreased, respectively, from 8.3 to 2.5 in group AMSCs and from 6.5 to 3.3 in group control. Mean ODI improved from 47% to 33% in group AMSCs and from 32% to 26% in group control. No major neurological complications occurred. Our preliminary analysis seems to provide similar results than our routine procedure. Further research, is needed to demonstrate AMSCs as an effective alternative for bone regeneration.

Clinical outcomes and fusion rates following anterior lumbar interbody fusion with bone graft substitute i-FACTOR, an anorganic bone matrix/P-15 composite.

Despite limited availability and the morbidity associated with autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG), its use in anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) procedures remains the gold standard to achieve arthrodesis. The search for alternative grafts yielding comparable or superior fusion outcomes with fewer complications continues. In particular, i-FACTOR, a novel bone graft substitute composed of anorganic bone matrix (ABM) with P-15 small peptide, is one example currently used widely in the dental community. Although preclinical studies have documented its usefulness, the role of i-FACTOR in ALIF procedures remains unknown. The authors' goal was to determine the safety and efficacy of i-FACTOR bone graft composite used in patients who underwent ALIF by evaluating fusion rates and clinical outcomes. A nonblinded cohort of patients who were all referred to a single surgeon's practice was prospectively studied. One hundred ten patients with degenerative spinal disease underwent single or multilevel ALIF using the ABM/P-15 bone graft composite with a mean of 24 months (minimum 15 months) of follow-up were enrolled in the study. Patient's clinical outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index for low-back pain, the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, Odom's criteria, and a visual analog scale for pain. Fine-cut CT scans were used to evaluate the progression to fusion. All patients who received i-FACTOR demonstrated radiographic evidence of bony induction and early incorporation of bone graft. At a mean of 24 months of follow-up (range 15-43 months), 97.5%, 81%, and 100% of patients, respectively, who had undergone single-, double-, and triple-level surgery exhibited fusion at all treated levels. The clinical outcomes demonstrated a statistically significant (p < 0.05) difference between preoperative and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and visual analog scores. The use of i-FACTOR bone graft substitute demonstrates promising results for facilitating successful fusion and improving clinical outcomes in patients who undergo ALIF surgery for degenerative spinal pathologies.

Bioabsorbable interbody magnesium-polymer cage: degradation kinetics, biomechanical stiffness, and histological findings from an ovine cervical spine fusion model.

An experimental study using a sheep cervical spine interbody fusion model. First, to compare anterior cervical discectomy and fusion of an experimental bioabsorbable cage consisting of a magnesium alloy and a polymer (poly-ε-caprolactone, PCL) with an autologous tricortical iliac crest bone graft. Second, to determine the degradation kinetics of the cage, assess the 2 fusion devices for biomechanical stability, and determine their histological characteristics. Bioabsorbable cages are not routinely used in spine surgery at present, due to some undesirable effects such as cracks and foreign body reactions. This study involved the manufacture of a bioabsorbable cage from a magnesium alloy and the polymer PCL, which was then used as a device for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in a sheep cervical spine fusion model. Twenty-four sheep had anterior cervical discectomy and fusion of C3-C4 and C5-C6 with an experimental bioabsorbable cage consisting of the magnesium alloy AZ31, which was infiltrated and covered with PCL at 1 level and with an autologous tricortical iliac crest bone graft at a second level. The sheep were divided into 4 groups. After 3, 6, 12, or 24 weeks postimplantation, the animals were killed and the cervical spines were harvested. The intervertebral spaces with the cage were investigated using μ-computed tomographic images to calculate degradation kinetics. Stiffness of all monosegments was determined through biomechanical testing. Histological analysis was performed to evaluate fusion status and to detect any foreign body reactions. The results from both implants were compared. The magnesium-PCL cage showed nonlinear degradation over time. Both implants demonstrated time-dependent increases in stability, with a significantly greater stiffness of the bone graft after 24 weeks in all directions of motion. Histologically, the cage showed no signs of fusion with progressive encapsulation over time. In comparison with the bone graft, the bioabsorbable cage showed inferior stiffness and fusion properties. Thus, further component modifications are necessary. N/A.

Morbidity of Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate Treated with Alveolar Bone Grafting at About 6 Years of Age

Alveolar bone grafting (ABG) is required in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) to reconstruct the alveolar cleft. Secondary ABG (using autologous iliac crest bone graft) at 9-11 years of age, prior to the eruption of the cleft-adjacent canine, has now been widely accepted. It has also been associated with minimal morbidity1. This approach does not take into consideration the eruption of the cleft-adjacent central and lateral incisors. To optimize the periodontal status of all cleft-adjacent permanent teeth, some cleft centers perform secondary ABG at about 6 years of age, at the time of eruption of the cleft-adjacent maxillary central incisor2. Unfortunately, the morbidity associated with the procedure in this younger patient population has not been extensively studied. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively investigate the morbidity of patients with CLP treated with ABG at about 6 years of age.

Arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction using an autologous iliac crest bone grafting technique

Open bone block procedures for glenohumeral stabilization have been used for a long time. With the advancement of arthroscopic techniques and the development of sophisticated instruments and implants, the insertion of the bone block can be performed by an all-arthroscopic approach. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results after an arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction using an all-arthroscopic, autologous tricortical iliac crest bone grafting technique. Fifteen patients (1 female and 14 male patients; mean age, 31.4 years [range, 17-49 years]) underwent reconstruction of significant glenoid defects in cases of recurrent shoulder instability by the aforementioned technique. The patients were followed up clinically (range of motion, Constant score, Rowe score, Subjective Shoulder Value, and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index) and radiographically (with true anteroposterior and axillary views, as well as 2-/3-dimensional computed tomography [glenoid configuration, signs of graft resorption, bone consolidation, and glenoid index]). After a mean follow-up period of 20.6 months (range, 12-65 months), the Constant score averaged 85.0 points (range, 73-98 points; contralateral side, 89.6 points [range, 78-96 points]), the Rowe score averaged 88.0 points (range, 65-100 points), the Subjective Shoulder Value averaged 84.5% (range, 50%-100%), and the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index averaged 76.7% (range, 46%-93%). No recurrent subluxations or dislocations were observed. Radiographically, computed tomography imaging showed a consolidated autograft in all cases. The glenoid index increased from a mean of 0.77 preoperatively to 1.16 immediately postoperatively; at the time of last follow-up, the glenoid index decreased to 1.04. The arthroscopic reconstruction of anteroinferior glenoid defects re-creates the pear-shaped anatomy of the anteroinferior glenoid and leads to good to excellent early clinical results.

Should fractures in massive intercalary bone allografts of the lower limb be treated with ORIF or with a new allograft?

Massive bone allografts have been used for limb salvage of bone tumor resections as an alternative to endoprostheses, although they have different outcomes and risks. There is no general consensus about when to use these alternatives, but when it is possible to save the native joints after the resection of a long bone tumor, intercalary allografts offer some advantages despite complications, such as fracture. The management and outcomes of this complication deserve more study. The purposes of this study were to (1) analyze the fracture frequency in a group of patients treated with massive intercalary bone allografts of the femur and tibia; (2) compare the results of allografts treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with those treated with resection and repeat allograft reconstruction; and (3) determine the likelihood that treatment of a fracture resulted in a healed intercalary reconstruction. We reviewed patients treated with intercalary bone allografts between 1991 and 2011. During this period, patients were generally treated with intercalary allografts when after tumor resection at least 1 cm of residual epiphysis remained to allow fixation of the osteotomy junction. To obtain a homogeneous group of patients, we excluded allograft-prosthesis composites and osteoarticular and hemicylindrical intercalary allografts from this study. We analyzed the fracture rate of 135 patients reconstructed with segmental intercalary bone allografts of the lower extremities (98 femurs and 37 tibias). In patients whose grafts fractured were treated either by internal fixation or a second allograft, ORIF generally was attempted but after early failures in femur fractures, these fractures were treated with a second allograft. Using a chart review, we ascertained the frequency of osseous union, complications, and reoperations after the treatment of fractured intercalary allografts. Followup was at a mean of 101 months (range, 24-260 months); of the original 135 patients, no patient was lost to followup. At latest followup, 19 patients (14%) had an allograft fracture (16 femurs [16%] and three tibias [8%]). Six patients were treated with internal fixation and addition of autologous graft (three femurs and three tibias) and 13 patients were treated with a second intercalary allograft (13 femurs). The three patients with femoral allograft fractures treated with internal fixation and autologous grafts failed and were treated with a second allograft, whereas those patients with tibia allograft fractures treated by the same procedure healed without secondary complications. When we analyzed the 16 patients with a second intercalary allograft (13 as primary treatment of the fracture and three as secondary treatment of the fracture), five failed (31%) and were treated with resection of the allograft and reconstructed with an endoprosthesis (four patients) or an osteoarticular allograft (one patient). Fractures of intercalary allografts of the tibia could successfully be treated with internal fixation and autologous iliac crest bone graft; however, this treatment failed when used for femur allograft fractures. Femoral fractures could be treated with resection and repeat allograft reconstruction, however, with a higher refracture frequency. The addition of a vascularized fibular graft in the second attempt should be considered. Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

How do we interpret national inpatient sample data about complications? Commentary on an article by Amit Jain, MD, et al.: "rhBMP Use in Cervical Spine Surgery: Associated Factors and In-hospital Complications".

Achieving solid osseous fusion remains a challenge in spine surgery. Autologous iliac crest bone graft remains the gold-standard graft material. In most cases, the fusion rates achievable with modern surgical techniques and autologous iliac crest bone graft are >90%. In specific scenarios, including long-segment fusion surgery and in patients with comorbidities, the fusion rates are substantially lower than this benchmark. Commercially available recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP) has rapidly been adopted as an alternative that can avoid the morbidity of iliac crest harvest and yet achieve similar, or possibly better, fusion rates than autograft bone. A number of recent publications have questioned the potential risks associated with the use of rhBMP1. A series of papers showing conflicting results has followed: some describing serious complications associated with rhBMP, and some reporting minimal or no effect on complication rates. In fact, two independent groups analyzed individual patient-level data supplied by the manufacturer of rhBMP-2 (Medtronic Sofamor Danek) and reached similar, but not identical, conclusions2,3. This controversy is the context for the paper by Jain et al., which describes the use of rhBMP in cervical spine surgery …

Bone union rate with recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 versus autologous iliac bone in PEEK cages for anterior lumbar interbody fusion

Autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) is the gold standard material for spinal fusion. Bone graft substitutes, such as recombinant human bone morphogenic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) have been developed to promote spinal fusion and address morbidity issues related to ICBG harvesting. The objective of this study was to compare bone fusion rates after anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) between ICBG and rhBMP-2 by examining thin-cut computed tomography (CT) images at the one year follow-up. Fifty one patients (62 levels) who underwent single- or two-level ALIF via the video-assisted minimally invasive anterior approach in our institution were assessed. Radiolucent cages were inserted in all cases. Each cage has a middle beam delimiting two chambers. Grafting was performed as follows: one chamber was filled with autologous ICBG, and the other chamber was filled with 6 mg of rhBMP-2. Thin-cut CT-scan multiplanar reconstruction analyses were performed to assess the rate and quality of bone fusion at one year of follow-up. Fusion was observed in 55 levels (88.7 %), with significant differences in fusion rates with rhBMP-2 and ICBG (71 % vs. 88.7 %) (P=0.001). Osteogenesis in the rhBMP-2 chamber had a centripetal pattern in all cases, leaving a central void in 97.7 % of cases representing 38.3 % of the surface of its chamber (range 0-80.3 %). In ICBG chambers, graft resorption was present in 44.4 %, representing 9.8 % of the chamber surface (range 0-52.2 %). RhBMP-2 was inferior to ICBG in terms of rate and quality of bone fusion in one- or two-level ALIF.

CERAMENT treatment of fracture defects (CERTiFy): protocol for a prospective, multicenter, randomized study investigating the use of CERAMENT™ BONE VOID FILLER in tibial plateau fractures.

BackgroundBone graft substitutes are widely used for reconstruction of posttraumatic bone defects. However, their clinical significance in comparison to autologous bone grafting, the gold-standard in reconstruction of larger bone defects, still remains under debate. This prospective, randomized, controlled clinical study investigates the differences in pain, quality of life, and cost of care in the treatment of tibia plateau fractures-associated bone defects using either autologous bone grafting or bioresorbable hydroxyapatite/calcium sulphate cement (CERAMENT™|BONE VOID FILLER (CBVF)).Methods/DesignCERTiFy (CERament™ Treatment of Fracture defects) is a prospective, multicenter, controlled, randomized trial. We plan to enroll 136 patients with fresh traumatic depression fractures of the proximal tibia (types AO 41-B2 and AO 41-B3) in 13 participating centers in Germany. Patients will be randomized to receive either autologous iliac crest bone graft or CBVF after reduction and osteosynthesis of the fracture to reconstruct the subchondral bone defect and prevent the subsidence of the articular surface. The primary outcome is the SF-12 Physical Component Summary at week 26. The co-primary endpoint is the pain level 26 weeks after surgery measured by a visual analog scale. The SF-12 Mental Component Summary after 26 weeks and costs of care will serve as key secondary endpoints. The study is designed to show non-inferiority of the CBVF treatment to the autologous iliac crest bone graft with respect to the physical component of quality of life. The pain level at 26 weeks after surgery is expected to be lower in the CERAMENT bone void filler treatment group.DiscussionCERTiFy is the first randomized multicenter clinical trial designed to compare quality of life, pain, and cost of care in the use of the CBVF and the autologous iliac crest bone graft in the treatment of tibia plateau fractures. The results are expected to influence future treatment recommendations.Trial registration numberClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01828905

Complications with the use of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) in spine surgery

Background contextRecombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) is a very potent osteogenic growth factor that has been used successfully in various spine fusions, obviating the need for autologous iliac crest bone graft harvest and therefore avoiding the associated morbidities. PurposeIn the past few years, a tremendous increase in rhBMP-2 usage was noted, and concerns regarding costs, benefits, and safety issues were raised by many. The goal of this work was to provide a comprehensive review of the adverse events and complications associated with use of rhBMP-2. Study designLiterature review. MethodsThis is a review of the current literature on the reported adverse events, complications, and concerns associated with rhBMP-2 use. ResultsThis article discusses the wide spectrum of adverse outcomes related to rhBMP-2 use in the lumbar and the cervical spine; retrograde ejaculation, antibodies formation, postoperative radiculitis, postoperative nerve root injury, ectopic bone formation, vertebral osteolysis/edema, dysphagia and neck swelling, hematoma formation, interbody graft lucency, and wound healing complications are reviewed. Cost-related concerns, dosage considerations, carrier types, and theoretical carcinogenesis concerns were also presented. ConclusionsDespite the excellent spinal fusion rates promoted by this powerful molecule, the increasingly reported adverse outcomes associated with bone morphogenetic protein usage have created real concerns. This article will provide the reader with a good understanding of the reported complications associated with rhBMP-2 use and ultimately help recognize its safety spectrum and limits for better clinical application.

Use of demineralized bone matrix in spinal fusion

Spinal fusion remains the gold-standard treatment for several pathological spine conditions. Although, autologous Iliac Crest Bone Grafting is considered the gold-standard graft choice to promote spinal fusion; however, it is associated with significant donor site morbidity and a limited graft quantity. Therefore, several bone graft alternatives have been developed, to augment arthrodesis. The purpose of this review is to present the results of clinical studies concerning the use of demineralized bone matrix (DBM), alone or as a composite graft, in the spinal fusion. A critical review of the English-language literature was conducted on Pubmed, using key word "demineralized bone matrix", "DBM", "spinal fusion", and "scoliosis". Results had been restricted to clinical studies. The majority of clinical trials demonstrate satisfactory fusion rates when DBM is employed as a graft extender or a graft enhancer. Limited number of prospective randomized controlled trials (4 studies), have been performed comparing DBM to autologous iliac crest bone graft in spine fusion. The majority of the clinical trials demonstrate comparable efficacy of DBM when it used as a graft extender in combination with autograft, but there is no clinical evidence to support its use as a standalone graft material. Additionally, high level of evidence studies are required, in order to optimize and clarify the indications of its use and the appropriate patient population that will benefit from DBM in spine arthrodesis.

Osteoclastoma of Proximal Ulna―Atypical Location in a 13-Year-Old Child

Giant cell tumour (GCT) or osteoclastoma is a very rare locally invasive bone tumour that occurs close to the joint. The ulnar metaphysis is an unusual site for an Osteoclastoma with occurrence rate of 0.45% to 3.2% as reported in literature [1]. Most of the patients seek traditional methods of treatment before orthopaedic consultation and present lately with extensive involvement of the tumour into soft tissues and articular surface, making the joint preservation difficult or impossible. For reconstruction, several options have been described, which include fibular autografts, allografts and cement augmentation. Inherent to all these procedures is the risk of delayed union of the graft and preserving functional mobility of the joint. We report a rare case of a proximal ulna GCT diagnosed in a 13-year-old girl. It was treated with intralesional curettage, and autologous maternal iliac crest bone grafting augmented with bone cement reconstruction.

Outcomes after shoulder arthroplasty revision with glenoid reconstruction and bone grafting

Extensive glenoid bone loss after failed shoulder arthroplasty represents a challenge for revision arthroplasty. Treatment options vary widely and have been a source of controversy among experts. Between 2004 and 2010, a total of 17 patients underwent glenoid reconstruction surgery using an autologous iliac crest bone graft and secondary revision arthroplasty due to extensive glenoid bone loss after failed previous total shoulder arthroplasty. The outcomes were assessed by means of clinical examination, Constant score, and bi-plane radiography as well as pre-, postoperative and follow-up CT. Before the revision surgery, the mean Constant score was 24 ± 17 and improved to 40 ± 13 after the glenoid rebuilding and revision arthroplasty. CT imaging revealed adequate glenoid bone stock restoration with no relevant graft resorption or loosening of the glenoid. The average postoperative antero-posterior diameter of the glenoid was 28 ± 3 mm which had decreased to 25 ± 3 mm at follow-up. The average postoperative version of the glenoid was 95.7° ± 6° and had decreased to 98.5° ± 4° at follow-up. Both the glenoid version and diameter had changed significantly (P < 0.001) comparing postoperative and follow-up CT-scans. Glenoid reconstruction surgery using an iliac crest bone-block autograft prior to revision arthroplasty represents a valuable salvage procedure in cases of extensive glenoid bone loss after primary shoulder arthroplasty. Sufficient glenoid bone stock restoration is indispensable for reliable fixation of glenoid components and in turn a satisfactory clinical outcome.

Efficacy of anterior cervical decompression and fusion procedures for monomelic amyotrophy treatment: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Monomelic amyotrophy (MMA) is a benign, self-limiting lower motor neuron disease. Optimal surgical strategies-discectomy decompression and fusion (DDF) or corpectomy decompression and fusion (CDF)-for patients with aggravated symptoms (within 6 months of presentation) are controversial, particularly in those who are ineligible for conventional treatment. These 2 methods of anterior cervical decompression and fusion for MMA in patients unwilling or unable to wear a conventional cervical collar long term were evaluated. Anterior cervical decompression and fusion were performed in 48 male patients with MMA between September 2007 and September 2010. Patients were randomly treated with anterior cervical discectomy decompression with autologous iliac crest bone grafting and internal plate fixation (DDF group: 24 patients) or anterior cervical corpectomy, posterior longitudinal ligament resection, autologous iliac crest bone grafting, and internal plate fixation (CDF group: 24 patients). Subjective symptom assessments and electromyography (EMG) examinations were conducted both preoperatively and postoperatively. Subjective assessments and EMG studies (mean follow-up duration 25.9 months) indicated improvement in 64.6% and 60% of patients, respectively. No significant correlations between the effectiveness of surgery and age at symptom onset, preoperative symptom duration, or postoperative follow-up time were found. The lack of a significant difference in effectiveness between DDF and CDF favors DDF as more clinically applicable because of its lower procedural risks. As a second-line alternative to cervical collar treatment, surgical anterior cervical decompression and fusion via DDF or CDF may prevent further deterioration and produce good short-term therapeutic effects in patients with MMA; however, cervical collar treatment is recommended for eligible patients because of its lower associated risks.

Management of Missed Monteggia Fractures With Ulnar Osteotomy, Open Reduction, and Dual-socket External Fixation

Open reduction of the radial head is usually necessary in the treatment of a missed Monteggia fracture. However, the best way to stabilize the reduction remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to present our experience using the dual-socket external fixator to stabilize the ulna osteotomy and capture the reduction of the radial head. We reviewed 33 patients with missed Monteggia fracture who underwent open reduction, ulnar osteotomy, and dual-socket external fixation from 2004 to 2010. The average age of this group was 7 years and the average time to surgical treatment after the fracture was 15 months. We treated all patients with open reduction of the radial head, fully releasing the capsular contracture, removing the fibrous scar tissue within the joint, performing ulnar osteotomy, and fixing the osteotomy with dual-socket external fixation. The clinical and radiographic follow-up averaged 38 months. Descriptive statistics utilized the Student test to compare the preoperative and postoperative functional movement of elbow and forearm. All patients had excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes without losing motion of the elbow and forearm, and all patients maintained reduction of the radial head at the final follow-up. There were no significant differences in the motion of the elbow and forearm between preoperative and postoperative examinations. Delayed union of the ulna occurred in 2 cases, both successfully treated with autologous iliac crest bone graft at 7 months after the operation. Three cases had early redislocation of the radial head, and these were treated successfully by changing the position of the ulnar osteotomy and readjusting the external fixators. Dual-socket external fixation has the major advantage of permitting and capturing the optimal position of the ulna osteotomy to achieve the best possible reduction of the radial head. A further advantage is the possibility of easily changing the position of the ulnar osteotomy by adjustment of the fixator should the radial head subluxate or redislocate in the early postoperative period as had occurred in 3 of our cases. We conclude that our procedure of fully releasing the capsular contractures, removing scar tissue, ulnar osteotomy, reduction of the radial head, and fixation of the osteotomy with dual-socket external fixation is a safe and effective way to manage children with a missed Monteggia fracture. Therapeutic level IV.

RhBMP-2 with a Demineralized Bone Matrix Scaffold versus Autologous Iliac Crest Bone Graft for Alveolar Cleft Reconstruction

Secondary alveolar cleft reconstruction using autologous iliac crest bone graft is currently the standard treatment for alveolar clefts. Although effective, harvesting autologous bone may result in considerable donor-site morbidity, most commonly pain and the potential for long-term sensory disturbances. In an effort to decrease patient morbidity, a novel technique using recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2 encased in a demineralized bone matrix scaffold was developed as an alternative to autografting for secondary alveolar cleft reconstruction. A chart review was conducted for the 55 patients who underwent secondary alveolar cleft reconstruction over a 2-year period with a mean follow-up of 21 months. Of these, 36 patients received rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold (including 10 patients with previously failed repairs using iliac crest bone grafting) and 19 patients underwent iliac crest bone grafting. Postoperatively, bone stock was evaluated using occlusal radiographs rated according to the Bergland and Chelsea scales. Alveolar clefts repaired using rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold were 97.2 percent successful compared with 84.2 percent with iliac crest bone grafting. Radiographically, initial repairs with rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold were superior to iliac crest bone grafting according to both Bergland and Chelsea scales, and significantly more patients in the rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold group had coronal bridging. The postoperative intraoral infection rate following iliac crest bone grafting was significantly greater than for rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold. The cost of rhBMP-2/demineralized bone matrix scaffold products was offset by cost savings associated with a reduction in operative time averaging 102 minutes. rhBMP-2 encased in a demineralized bone matrix scaffold appears to be a viable alternative for secondary alveolar cleft repair. Patients are spared donor-site morbidity and achieve excellent results, decreasing operative time, and increasing operating room use. Therapeutic, III.

Biological Reconstruction Following the Resection of Malignant Bone Tumors of the Pelvis

Background. Surgical treatment of malignant pelvic bone tumors can be very challenging. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the oncological as well as the clinical and functional outcome after limb salvage surgery and biological reconstruction. Methods. The files of 27 patients with malignant pelvic bone tumors, who underwent surgical resection at our department between 2000 and 2011, were retrospectively analyzed (9 Ewing's sarcoma, 8 chondrosarcoma, 4 osteosarcoma, 1 synovial sarcoma, 1 malignant fibrous histiocytoma, and 4 carcinoma metastases). Results. After internal hemipelvectomy reconstruction was performed by hip transposition (n = 16), using autologous nonvascularised fibular graft (n = 5) or autologous iliac crest bone graft (n = 2). In one patient a proximal femor prothetis and in three patients a total hip prosthesis was implanted at the time of resection. The median follow-up was 33 months. Two- and five-year disease-specific survival rates of all patients were 86.1% and 57.7%, respectively. The mean functional MSTS score was 16.5 (~55%) for all patients. Conclusion. On the basis of the oncological as well as the clinical and functional outcome, biological reconstruction after internal hemipelvectomy seems to be a reliable technique for treating patients with a malignant pelvic bone tumor.