What are tumor prostheses and bone reconstruction? Information about prostheses, bone grafts, reconstruction, and follow-up processes after bone tumor surgery.
Tumor prostheses and bone reconstruction are orthopedic oncology applications aimed at rebuilding bone and joint loss that occurs after surgical treatment of bone tumors. These methods help preserve limb integrity and movement functions as much as possible, especially in patients where extensive bone tissue needs to be removed.
In osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and some bone metastases, bone structure reconstruction may be necessary after tumor removal. The reconstruction method to be applied; The method is determined according to the type of tumor, its location, the amount of bone removed, and the patient's clinical characteristics.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
When planning tumor prosthesis or bone reconstruction, the patient's clinical condition, the characteristics of the tumor, and the bone loss that may occur after surgery are evaluated in detail.
The bone structure, the boundaries of the tumor, and its relationship with the surrounding joint, muscle, nerve, and vascular tissues are examined using imaging methods such as X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT).
In surgical planning, the removal of the tumor with appropriate margins, the strength of the remaining bone tissue, and the preservation of limb functions are considered together.
Tumor Prosthesis and Reconstruction Methods
Reconstruction methods that can be applied after bone tumor surgery vary depending on the extent of bone and joint loss.
Tumor Prostheses: These are special orthopedic implants used to reconstruct extensive bone or joint loss. They can be considered especially in the surgical treatment of some bone tumors around the knee, hip, and shoulder.
Bone Graft Applications: This involves using bone tissue obtained from the patient's own body or suitable donor sources to replace the removed bone tissue.
Bone Reconstruction: This encompasses the reconstruction of bone loss using prostheses, bone grafts, or different surgical methods. In some patients, more than one method may be used together.
Joint Reconstruction: These are surgical procedures aimed at restoring the structure and movement functions of the joint when the joint surfaces are also affected during tumor removal.
Not every reconstruction method is suitable for every patient. The choice of method is planned individually according to the characteristics of the disease and surgical requirements.
Postoperative Recovery and Follow-up
The healing process after tumor prosthesis and bone reconstruction varies depending on the scope of the surgery performed and the reconstruction method used.
In the postoperative period, wound healing, the condition of the prosthesis, bone integrity, and the patient's movement functions are evaluated. Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs may be applied if necessary.
In long-term follow-up, checks may be performed for prosthesis loosening, infection, mechanical problems, or problems related to bone graft fusion.
Depending on the type of tumor, the possibility of disease recurrence is also monitored with regular clinical and radiological examinations.
The treatment and follow-up process is planned according to the patient's individual needs in collaboration with the relevant specialties.