The augmentive use of methyl methacrylate in the management of pathologic fractures.

Methyl methacrylate is a useful adjunct to obtain secure internal fixation in the treatment of comminuted pathologic fractures. This method was used in 73 patients with 81 pathologic fractures of whom only four failed to regain function in the extremity which was operated upon. While it is probable that methyl methacrylate may have an adverse effect on fracture healing, the fixation achieved when applied to only one surface appears adequate and was observed to last for as long as nine years. The use of methyl methacrylate to augment internal fixation of pathologic fractures offers the patient a better chance to return to normal activities than any of the methods that are in use to date.