Functional outcome following excision of giant cell tumour of the distal radius and reconstruction by autologous non-vascularized osteoarticular fibula graft

PURPOSE: Giant cell tumour (GCT) of the bone is a benign but locally aggressive tumour, commonly occurs at the metaphyseal-epiphyseal junction of the distal femur, proximal tibia, and distal radius. For Campanacci grade II and III lesions of the distal radius and in cases of recurrence, we usually carry out wide resection and reconstruction. There are numerous publications on the treatment of GCT of the distal radius. Still, reports on the functional outcome using non-vascularized fibular graft arthroplasty without fusion remain limited.

METHOD: We reviewed patients who underwent wide resection and non-vascularized fibular graft arthroplasty from 2007 to May 2014. The assessment was done with Musculoskeletal Tumour Society Score (MSTS), Toronto Extremities Scoring System (TESS) and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores. We also reviewed the radiographic results.

RESULTS: Fifteen patients were recruited, of whom 10 cases used ipsilateral fibular graft and five used contralateral non-vascularized fibular graft. The average duration of follow up was 6 years (3.25-9.92 years). The average grip strength was 48.1% compared to the non-operated hand. The average MSTS score was 78.4 %, TESS score was 84%, and DASH score was 25.2. The average time to radiological union was 12.5 weeks. 64% (29-78%) of the range of movement is preserved compared to the normal side. The complication rate was 20%.

CONCLUSION: Fibula autograft arthroplasty is a feasible method of reconstruction after distal radius resection with good functional outcomes.