[The use of massive allograft in reconstruction following resection of bone tumors of the extremities].

Reported are indications, techniques and clinical outcome of 45 patients with resection of a primary malignant or aggressive benign tumor of the extremities, reconstructed with an allograft. The goal of this procedure is to achieve a wide resection of the tumor and to reconstruct the defect saving the limb. Bridging the osseous defect, we used an osteochondral allograft (14), intercalary allograft (16), allograft arthrodesis (14) and composite reconstruction (1). There were 3 deep infections, 3 superficial infections, 2 pseudarthrosis and 1 rejection found as complications. After local revision of the infections by allograft explantation and temporary implantation of antibiotic-loaded chains, another allograft could be implanted with success. Using different, individual adapted operative methods and allografts, a broad spectrum of bone defects after resection of bone tumors and, if necessary revisions, can be treated.