Massive Resection and Allograft Transplantation in the Treatment of Malignant Bone Tumors

Abstract

Nineteen massive resections and allograft transplantations have been performed for malignant or aggressive bone tumors. Allograft procurement technic uses freezing of the segment to decrease immunogenicity of the bony portion and glycinerization of the cartilage to maintain chondrocyte viability during freezing and thawing. Fifteen of the patients have been followed for an average of almost two years and were evaluated for early results by serial follow-up studies, including clinical, laboratory, x-ray and scan data. Despite numerous complications (related to both tumor and operation) none have metastases, local recurrence, or major functional impairment except for two whose grafts became infected. We conclude that, although still experimental, allograft replacement may in the future serve as an important approach to certain neoplastic conditions of bones and joints. (N Engl J Med 294:1247–1255, 1976)