Vascularized Fibular Graft Research Articles

Outcomes of Free Vascularized Fibular Grafts in Treating Massive Forearm Skeletal Defects.

Reconstructing long bone defects in the upper limbs, particularly the radius and ulna, poses significant challenges. These defects, resulting from trauma, tumors, infections, or congenital anomalies, require precise surgical intervention for functional restoration. Traditional non-vascularized autogenous bone grafts have limitations, such as resorption and limited biological activity. To address these challenges, free vascularized fibular grafts (FVFGs) have been developed, offering enhanced recovery by supplying nutrients and structural support, particularly in large defects or compromised vascularity. This retrospective study reviewed patients with significant forearm skeletal defects treated with FVFGs at our institution from January 2008 to January 2019. Included were patients with radius or ulna defects exceeding 8 cm due to trauma, tumor excision, or non-union fractures. Data on demographics, clinical details, surgical techniques, and outcomes-including graft union time, complications, range of motion, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores-were analyzed. Eight patients, with a mean age of 27.6 years and an average defect length of 9.8 cm, were included. All patients achieved graft union within an average of 4 months, with no tumor recurrence or significant complications. Functional outcomes showed mean forearm pronation of 56.9 degrees, supination of 52.5 degrees, and a mean DASH score of 17.7. FVFG is a safe and effective technique for managing complex forearm bone defects, providing high union rates and good functional outcomes. It should be considered a primary option for large forearm skeletal defects.

Long-term results and patient-reported outcomes after vascularized fibular graft use in the treatment of post-traumatic bone defects of femur shaft and tibia: A retrospective cohort and cross-sectional survey study

Post-traumatic critical-sized bone defects pose a reconstructive challenge for reconstructive surgeons. The vascularized fibula graft is a well-described treatment for osseous defects of the femur and tibia. This study aimed to assess long-term patient-reported quality of life, the success-, and complication rates in lower extremity reconstruction with vascularized fibula grafts. A retrospective cohort of 29 patients who underwent fibula graft reconstruction for critical-sized bone defects after post-traumatic tibial and femoral bone loss between 1990 and 2021 was included. To assess the health-related quality of life and return to work and satisfaction, a cross-sectional survey was performed using the short-form-36, lower extremity functional scale, and a self-made questionnaire including the DN4, satisfaction, and subjective ankle function. The median bone defect size was 8cm (IQR 9-7cm). The mental component scores were comparable to the Dutch population norm, whereas the impaired physical function scores were associated with pain (r 0.849, p<0.001). Neuropathic symptoms were reported in 7 out of 19 patients, and 11 out of 19 patients returned to normal daily activity. All respondents reported positive or neutral scores on overall satisfaction with the recovery. Bone healing was uneventful in 19 out of 29 patients. Union was achieved in 25 out of 29 patients. Persistent nonunion was observed in 4 patients, leading to amputation in 2 patients. Vascularized fibula graft use led to high union rates and limb salvage in patients with post-traumatic segmental bone loss of the tibia and femur. Patient satisfaction with the overall recovery was positive; however, functional outcomes remained impaired.

Versatility of Vascularized Fibular Graft in Forearm Bone Loss: From Initial Treatment to Secondary Nonunion Treatment

PurposeManaging mangled forearms poses a significant challenge for orthopedic and plastic surgeons. The vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) is a commonly used technique for addressing this complex issue. This retrospective study aims to assess the outcomes of advanced treatment for complex forearm bone loss necessitating microsurgical treatment with a vascularized fibula flap. MethodsPatients treated with vascularized fibula graft (VFG) between January 2010 and December 2022 were included in this analysis. Physical and radiographic evaluations were performed for all patients, and they completed patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) such as the DASH, Mayo Wrist score, and VAS-Pain scores for both the recipient and donor sites. Patients treated with one-bone forearm reconstruction were also assessed using the Outcome Score of the one-bone forearm according to Peterson (OBF). ResultsA total of 26 cases were treated with VFG for forearm bone defect reconstruction (13 for primary treatment and 13 for secondary treatment of non union). VFG was employed to create a one-bone forearm in 4 cases, a double barrel in 3 cases, and an osteocutaneous composite flap in 9 cases. The average bone defect measured 81 ± 3.4 mm (range 50-150 mm). Bone healing was achieved at an average of 8.3 months ± 5.5 months (4-15 months)., with nonunion at one docking point observed in 8 cases necessitating revision. At the follow-up endpoint, patients reported an average DASH score of 13.5%, a Mayo Wrist score of 80%, and VAS-Pain's score was 3/10. The VAS-Pain outcome at the donor site was rated at 4/10. OBI's mean was 7/10. ConclusionsFVFG stands as a viable option for mangled forearm reconstruction. Whether through the double barrel technique or as an osteocutaneous composite graft, FVFG allows for the simultaneous reconstruction of both forearm bones and associated soft tissue injuries.

Graft Infections in Biologic Reconstructions in the Oncologic Setting: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Background: Biologic graft infection (BGI) is one of the main complications in graft reconstructions. However, very little evidence exists regarding the epidemiology of BGI, as most of the data come from sparse reports. Moreover, most of the series did not detail the treatment and outcome of graft infections. The aim of this systematic review of the literature is to provide a comprehensive data collection on BGI after oncologic resections. Methods: Three different databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant articles, and further references were obtained by cross-referencing. Results: 139 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 9824 grafts were retrieved. Among these, 684 (6.9%) were in the humerus, 365 (3.7%) in the pelvis, 2041 (20.7%) in the femur and 1660 (16.8%) in the tibia. Most grafts were osteoarticular (2481, 26.7%) and intercalary 2112 (22.7%) allografts. In 461 (5.0%), vascularized fibula grafts (VFGs) were used in combination with recycled autografts. Recycled grafts were reported in 1573 (16.9%) of the cases, and allograft-prosthetic composites in 1673 (18.0%). The pelvis and the tibia had the highest incidence of BGI (20.4% and 11.0%, respectively). The most reported first treatment was debridement and implant retention (DAIR) in 187 (42.8%) cases and two-stage revision with graft removal in 152 (34.8%). Very little data are reported on the final outcome specified by site or type of graft. Conclusions: This systematic review of the literature confirms a high incidence of infections in biologic reconstructions after resections of primary bone tumors. Despite DAIR being a viable attempt, in most cases, a two-stage approach with graft removal and reconstruction with endoprosthesis presented the highest chance to overcome infection, guaranteeing a reconstruction. We emphasize the need for future multicentric studies to focus on the management of infections after biological reconstructions in bone sarcomas.

Treatment of pediatric bone tumors around the knee

Primary bone tumors are rare but more frequently seen during childhood and with predilection for the distal femur and proximal tibia. Therapy of benign tumors-if indicated-includes surgical resection in most cases, whereas malignant bone tumors such as osteo- and Ewing's sarcomas are treated with chemotherapy, wide resection and/or radiation therapy (Ewing's sarcoma). The reconstruction of emerging bone defects is significantly influenced by surgeon-related preferences and tumor-associated factors, respectively. Double-barrel vascularized fibula grafts or extracorporeally irradiated autografts in combination with afree fibula transplant are preferred biological reconstruction techniques around the knee joint. In cases in which the knee joint cannot be preserved, reconstruction is performed using tumor endoprostheses, but potentially emerging leg length discrepancies after resection of apotent physis must be taken into account. In considerably young patients, rotationplasty might represent aviable option with promising functional results.

Advancing pediatric bone sarcoma care: navigating complications and innovating solutions in limb salvage and reconstruction-why, when, and how to treat limb length inequalities.

Pediatric bone sarcomas, particularly osteosarcomas, present unique challenges in the realm of orthopedic oncology, given their predilection for the metaphyseal regions of long bones and the intricate balance required between achieving oncologic control and preserving limb function. This abstract encapsulates findings from a comprehensive review aimed at advancing pediatric bone sarcoma care, focusing on navigating the complications and innovating solutions for complications of limb salvage and reconstruction focusing on limb length inequalities and accompanying bone defects. Advancements in imaging, surgical techniques, and adjuvant therapies have shifted the paradigm from amputation to limb-sparing surgeries, albeit with significant challenges, especially in young patients where growth potential complicates reconstructive outcomes. The series highlights the complexity of managing limb length discrepancies (LLD), the cornerstone of limb salvage challenges, and the innovative approaches to address them, including modular endoprosthetic reconstruction with expandable prostheses, magnetic lengthening nails and biological reconstruction strategies like vascularized fibula grafts. This review underlines the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing pediatric bone sarcomas, where the aim extends beyond mere survival to ensuring quality of life through functional limb preservation. It highlights the need for ongoing innovation in surgical and reconstructive techniques tailored to the pediatric population's unique needs, emphasizing the potential of emerging technologies and methodologies to improve outcomes. Future research should aim to fill the existing knowledge gaps, particularly in comparing pediatric and adult surgical outcomes, to refine treatment protocols and improve patient care in this challenging domain.

A literature review of current surgical treatment for congenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is an infrequently observed condition. However, it is considered to be one of the most complex ailments in the field of pediatric orthopedics. In cases where a tibial fracture is absent, the conventional treatment approach involves using bracing as a preventive measure against fractures. Various surgical modalities have been proposed for the management of CPT, including intramedullary (IM) rod fixation, external fixators, on-lay grafts, cancellous grafts, periosteal grafts, Paley cross-union, amputation, vascularized fibula grafts, and induced membrane techniques. These modalities can be used in different combinations and permutations. The need for repetitive surgical interventions due to unsuccessful therapeutic outcomes or modifications in secondary treatments can significantly disrupt the childhood experience, resulting in prolonged and recurrent functional limitations. In certain instances, amputation may be required as a primary or secondary treatment modality. This literature review will clarify the current surgical interventions for CPT disease based on a summary of research data. The surgery the patient receives significantly impacts their general health and capacity to heal.

Evaluation of the effect of vascularized fibula graft harvesting on coronal plane alignment and functional outcomes of the lower limb

Recent studies on fibular osteotomy for varus gonarthrosis and possible subsequent biomechanical changes have attracted increasing attention to the topic. Existing studies have focused mainly on proximal fibular osteotomy with short follow-up periods. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the alignment of the coronal plane of the ankle and knee joints in patients who underwent vascularized fibula graft harvest (VFGH). The evaluation was based on functional outcomes and radiological measurements.In the comparison between the VFGH side and the contralateral side, no significant differences in the knee inclination (KI) or talar inclination (TI) angle, knee medial clear space (K-MCS) or ankle medial clear space (A-MCS) distance were noted. However, a significant difference in the hip knee (HKA) angle was observed between the operated and nonoperated sides (0.3° ± 1.8° and 1.5° ± 1.9°, respectively [p = 0.019]). Statistically significant differences in both the knee society score (KSS) and the AOFAS scores were found between the ipsilateral donor limb and the contralateral healthy limb. Although the contralateral healthy side had better clinical scores than the VFGH side, the outcomes of the VFGH side were still satisfactory or excellent.

Free Vascularized Fibula Graft as Primary Salvage Procedure for Acute Cervical Osteomyelitis Caused by Epidural Abscess.

Acute cervical osteomyelitis due to an epidural abscess and pyogenic spondylodiscitis in an immunosuppressed patient with progressive myelopathy is a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. This report presents our novel approach to treat such a condition in a 56-year-old patient in whom antibiotic treatment and decompression of the medulla by laminectomy of C4-C6 failed. Under general anesthesia, debridement of all infected tissue, including anterior corpectomy of C4-C6, was performed. Simultaneously, a free vascularized fibula graft (FVFG) was harvested, adapted to the bone defect, and anastomosed to the superior thyroid artery and external jugular vein. The graft was stabilized with an anterior plate. A scheduled posterior stabilization was performed 1 week later. Staphylococcus aureus was cultured from bone samples and was treated with antibiotics. The postoperative course was uncomplicated besides a dorsal midline defect 6 weeks postoperatively that was closed with a sensate midline-based perforator flap. Five years on, the patient is infection free, and regular control computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scan images show progressive fusion and hypertrophy of the fibula to C3/C7 vertebrae. An FVFG combined with posterior stabilization could be a promising primary salvage procedure in cases with progressive myelopathy caused by acute cervical osteomyelitis due to spinal infection. The FVFG contributes to blood circulation, delivery of antibiotics, and an immunological response to the infected wound bed and can stimulate rapid fusion and hypertrophy over time.

Joint-Sparing Resection around the Knee for Osteosarcoma: Long-Term Outcomes of Biologic Reconstruction with Vascularized Fibula Graft Combined with Massive Allograft.

(1) Background: We aim to address the following questions. What was the complication rate of vascularized fibula graft (VFG) combined with massive allograft in patients treated with joint-sparing resection around the knee for a high-grade osteosarcoma? What was the long-term survivorship of VFG free from revision and graft removal? What were the functional results as assessed by the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score? (2) Methods: 39 patients treated in our unit for osteosarcoma around the knee with intercalary resection and reconstruction with VFG combined with massive allograft were included; 26 patients underwent intercalary tibial resection, while 13 underwent intercalary femoral resection. (3) Results: Mean Follow-Up was 205 months (28 to 424). Complications that required surgery were assessed in requiring surgical revision in 19 patients (49%) after a mean of 31 months (0 to 107), while VFG removal was necessary in three patients (8%). The revision-free survival of the reconstructions was 59% at 5 years and 50% at 10 to 30 years. The overall survival of the reconstructions was 95% at 5 to 15 years and 89% at 20 to 30 years. The mean MSTS score was 29.3 (23 to 30). (4) Conclusions: VFG represents an effective reconstructive option after joint-sparing intercalary resection around the knee for osteosarcoma.

THE SU-PERIOSTEUM: IMPROVING BONE BIOLOGY USING NOVEL CHIMERIC FIBULA-PERIOSTEAL FLAP

IntroductionThe presence of pluripotent mesenchymal cells in the periosteum along with the growth factors produced or released following injury provides this tissue with an important role in bone healing. Utilising this property, vascularised periosteal flaps may increase the union rates in recalcitrant atrophic long bone non-union. The novel chimeric fibula-periosteal flap utilises the periosteum raised on an independent periosteal vessel, thus allowing the periosteum to be inset freely around the osteotomy site, improving bone biology.Materials &amp; MethodsTen patients, with established non-union, underwent fibula-periosteal chimeric flaps (2016–2022) at the Canniesburn Plastic Surgery Unit, UK. Preoperative CT angiography was performed to identify the periosteal branches. A case-control approach was used. Patients acted as their own controls, which obviated patient specific risks for non-union. One osteotomy site was covered by the chimeric periosteal flap and one without. In two patients both the osteotomies were covered using a long periosteal flap.ResultsUnion rate of 100% (11/11) was noted with periosteal flap osteotomies, versus those without flaps at 28.6% (2/7) (p = 0.0025). Time to union was also reduced in the periosteal flaps at 8.5 months versus 16.75 months in the control group (p = 0.023). Survival curves with a hazard ratio of 4.1, equating to a 4 times higher chance of union with periosteal flaps (log-rank p = 0.0016) was observed.ConclusionsThe chimeric fibula-periosteal flap provides an option for atrophic recalcitrant non-unions where use of vascularised fibula graft alone may not provide an adequate biological environment for consolidation.

Optimizing bone fixation in vascularized fibula graft in the upper extremity

The free vascularized fibula transfer has become a widely utilized method in reconstructive surgery, with successful applications across various anatomical areas. The biological properties of the graft, including its ability to fuse with recipient bone, repair fractures, and remodel in new biomechanical environments, have been key to its efficacy. However, stable bone fixation is crucial for successful fusion and to prevent complications like non-union. While early approaches focused on minimally invasive techniques to preserve the fibula's vascular network, stable internal fixation has become favored in preventing complications. This article aims to systematically describe bone fixation options for vascularized fibula grafts in the upper limb based on extensive experience, recommending internal fixation over external methods, such as long plates for humerus reconstruction. Different osteotomy techniques are discussed, including intramedullary, transverse, and step cut, with considerations for biomechanics and patient demographics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of stable osteosynthesis for successful outcomes, particularly in early rehabilitation. Additionally, advancements in 3D printing offer personalized solutions in osteosynthesis device design, further enhancing surgical outcomes.

Intercalary Resection of the Tibia for Primary Bone Tumors: Are Vascularized Fibula Autografts With or Without Allografts a Durable Reconstruction?

Intercalary Resection of the Tibia for Primary Bone Tumors: Are Vascularized Fibula Autografts With or Without Allografts a Durable Reconstruction?

Long-term survival and success rate of dental implants placed in reconstructed areas with extraoral autogenous bone grafts: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

To evaluate the long-term survival and success rates of implants placed in reconstructed areas using microvascularized or non-microvascularized extraoral bone grafts. An electronic search was performed in five databases and in gray literature for articles published until June, 2023. The eligibility criteria comprised observational studies (prospective or retrospective) and clinical trials, reporting survival and success rates of implants placed in extraoral bone grafts. A meta-analysis (implant failure) was categorized into subgroups based on the type of bone graft used. The risk of bias within studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up time was 92 months. The summary estimate of survival rate at the implant level were 94.9% (CI: 90.1%-97.4%) for non-vascularized iliac graft, 96.5% (CI: 91.4%-98.6%) for non-vascularized calvaria graft, and 92.3% (CI: 89.1%-94.6%) for vascularized fibula graft. The mean success rate and marginal bone loss (MBL) were 83.2%; 2.25 mm, 92.2%; 0.93 mm, and 87.6%; 1.49 mm, respectively. Implants placed in areas reconstructed using extraoral autogenous bone graft have high long-term survival rates and low long-term MBLs. The data did not demonstrate clinically relevant differences in the survival, success, or MBL of grafts from different donor areas or with different vascularization. This systematic review was registered in INPLASY under number INPLASY202390004.

Midterm Donor Site Morbidity After Vascularized Free Fibula Flap Harvesting.

Vascularized fibula grafts (VFGs) have become one of the most preferred grafts for the reconstruction of bone defects. However, despite the many advantages over other graft options, recipient and donor site morbidities are also common. Donor site morbidity has been reported at rates ranging from 5% to 67%. The aim of this study was to present a single-center series examining the clinical, functional, and radiologic aspects of donor site morbidity following VFG harvesting. The study included 69 patients who underwent biological reconstruction with VFG for bone tumors, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, or bone defects after trauma. Patients were evaluated functionally, clinically, and radiologically for donor site morbidity. Donor site morbidity was observed in 33 of 69 patients (48%). The most complications were sensation deficits around the feet and ankles (20 of 69; 29%). Knee laxity was more common in patients who underwent osteoarticular fibular resection (P = .006). We found VFG to be an effective method for the reconstruction of large bone defects, but associated with a relatively high rate of complications. Complications requiring surgical intervention were rare and the majority of patients did not have long-term functional limitations. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Can locking plate fixation and free Vascularised fibular transfer with skin island achieve good functional outcome in the treatment of large bone defects of Tibia ? A study of 26 cases

BackgroundDespite the availability of multiple treatment options, management of tibial bone loss continues to be a challenge. Free vascularized fibula graft (FVFG) with a skin paddle offers better advantages over the other methods. We aimed to study the functional outcomes and QALY of patients with large tibial bone defects following FVFG with a locking plate. Materials and MethodsWe analyzed 26 consecutive patients with large tibial bone defects treated by free vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) and stabilization using a long locking plate between 2009 and 2018. All were followed up for a mean period of 42 months (24 to 120 months). Bony union, graft hypertrophy, and complications such as stress fracture and infections were assessed. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify any association between demographic factors, injury characteristics, treatment-related factors, and fibular hypertrophy. Additionally, The EQ-5D quality-of-life (QOL) indices were obtained using the SF-12 score to evaluate the patients' overall quality of life. ResultsThe mean age of the patients at the time of presentation was 36.26 yrs (range, 18–60 years). The cause of bone loss was open injury in 16 patients and infected nonunion in 10 patients. Complete union was achieved in 25 patients (96 %) without any requirement of additional surgical procedures. The mean union time of the graft was 4.04 months (range, 3–6 months). The mean fibular hypertrophy calculated by De Boer index was 0.61 %, 11 %, 28.24 % and 52.52 % at 3,6 months and 1 and 2 years respectively. Patients with metaphyseal bone loss have significant fibular hypertrophy. Participants in our study experienced a quality of life equivalent to 0.88 (range 0.79–0.99) of perfect health. ConclusionsFVFG with skin paddle and LCP fixation for massive tibial bone loss achieved satisfactory outcome and QALY even in the challenging healthcare environment of South India, a developing country.It maintains alignment, promotes graft hypertrophy, and prevents stress fractures. Level of evidenceLevel 4 Level of clinical careLevel I Tertiary trauma centre

What Is the Revision-free Survival of Resurfaced Allograft-prosthesis Composites for Proximal Humerus Reconstruction in Children With Bone Tumors?

What Is the Revision-free Survival of Resurfaced Allograft-prosthesis Composites for Proximal Humerus Reconstruction in Children With Bone Tumors?

Long-Term Results in the Treatment of Avascular Necrosis of Femoral Head with Free Vascularized Fibular Graft

Objective: to evaluate outcomes of vascularized fibula flap used for Avascular necrosis of femoral head. Outcomes were recorded by post-operative Harris hip and radiological improvement of the femoral head. Study Design: Retrospective longitudinal study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plastic Surgery, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad Pakistan, from Jan 2019 to Jan 2020. Methodology: Cases were recruited from 2005-2018 (SIH) performed by the same Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgeon. Data from 30 patients was reviewed. Ethical approval and consent of the patient were taken before the utilization of their data. Results: A total of 30 patients were included, comprising 27(90%) males and 3(10%) females. The mean age was 28.3± years. Pre-operative Harris Hip scores were fair in 17(56.7%) and poor in 13(43.3%) patients. Post operatively these scores improvedv and were noted to be excellent in 10(33.3%), good in 18(60%) and fair in 2(6,7%) patients. Radiological improvement was seen in 20(80%) patients, 8(23.3%) showed no change and 2(6.7%) went into progression. The radiological improvement was significantly associated with aetiology (p=0.004) and Avascular necrosis of HIP (p=0.007). Conclusion: A vascularized fibular graft is an effective treatment option for avascular necrosis of the femoral head in terms of improved radiological outcomes and post-operative Harris Hip scores.

Management of severe defects of humerus in combat patients injured in Russo-Ukrainian war

IntroductionRusso-Ukrainian war is associated with application of high-energy weapon, causing severe multifragmental injuries to the bones an associating with severe bone defects.The aim of the study was to evaluate various methods to treat combat patients with severe defects of humerus and to demonstrate the experience of orthopedic war surgeons in managing gunshot injuries to the humerus defects in the ongoing war. Patients and methodsA 24 patients were active-duty military personnel of Armed Forces of Ukraine. These patients were diagnosed with severe humerus defects due to gunshot injury in battlefield zone in various areas of Ukraine. Data was collected within period between February, 24th 2022 till January, 01st 2023. The following approaches were applied to replace bone defect: preoperative 3D printing with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) as orthobiological material; closed reduction, percutaneous lag screw and Ilizarov external fixation; vascularized fibula grafting. ResultsData analyses of the segmental defects of humerus showed 5 cm defect in 3 (13 %) patients, from 5 to 10 cm in 4 (17 %) patients, over 10 cm in 17 (71 %) patients. Analyses were performed in these 17 (71 %) patients, showing 5 patients treated with 3D-printed PEEK implants, 6 patients with vascular-pedicle graft of fibula, 6 patients with closed reduction, percutaneous lag screw, Ilizarov external fixation. Osteomyelitis was diagnosed in one case (20 %) after the use of PEEK implants, requiring to remove both PEEK implant and metal implants followed by application of the antibiotic joint spacers and Ex-Fix fragments of the humerus. In our opinion, the osteomyelitis happened due to inadequate debridement of the wound and non-compliance with the conversion criteria (replacement of the fixation method). The mean length of hospital stay was 5.5 months for patients treated with 3D-printed PEEK implants. ConclusionsClosed reduction, percutaneous lag screw and Ilizarov external fixation as well as vascularized fibula grafting are associated with good outcomes in management of the patients with severe humerus defect due to gunshot injury. 3D printing and PEEK implants could also be considered for the reconstructions of the humerus multifragmental fractures with a bone defect over 10 cm associated with gunshot injury due to high-energy weapon in the war settings.

Reconstruction With Flow-Through Chimeric Anterolateral Thigh Flap Combining Vascularized Fibular Bone Graft for Extensive Composite Tissue Defect of the Forearm: A Case Report.

The management of critical limb trauma is challenging because limb salvage is preferable to amputation. For upper limb reconstruction, the surgical restoration of functionality, and appearance, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. We report the case of an extensive composite tissue defect of the forearm caused by a machine-crushing injury that was repaired by a flow-through chimeric anterolateral thigh flap with a vascularized fibular graft. Reconstruction was performed as a single-stage procedure; no complications occurred, and both functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory.