Soft tissue reconstruction about the proximal femur

The outcome of proximal femur reconstruction after resection of malignant tumors was studied in 45 patients. Clinical results, according to the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score, were rated good to excellent in 56% of patients. Patients with primary tumors survived an average of 44.5 months and patients with secondary tumors for 32 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 20%. Aseptic loosening and tumor recurrences were not a problem for these patients. Most complications were related to material and stability. The major problem after reconstruction was lack of strength of the gluteal muscles which resulted, in part, in joint instability and impaired function. Of all reconstruction methods of the abductor mechanism, metal armed fixation devices (ie, screws, hooked plate) were found to be the best in terms of strength and overall function, and are recommended for this type of reconstruction.