IlluminOss photodynamic bone stabilization system: Retrospective cohort review of clinical and peri-operative imaging complications.

BACKGROUND

Metastatic bone disease poses a significant challenge to patients, impacting nearly 400,000 individuals annually in the United States. Addressing this challenge requires high quality imaging techniques for the oncologic population to effectively manage pathologic fractures and optimize clinical outcomes. A minimally invasive alternative to conventional fracture fixation has been developed as a photodynamic bone stabilization system.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: What are complications related to PBSS use for surgical treatment of MBD, and what clinical relevance do they present? What unique imaging features should orthopedic surgeons and radiologists comprehend in order to identify these complications?

METHODS

Retrospective cohort review of patients who underwent PBSS fixation for MBD-related fractures with the IlluminOss Stabilization system was performed. The peri-operative imaging was reviewed, both the typical appearance across multiple imaging modalities of the IOS system, as well as potentially abnormal imaging findings.

RESULTS

Peri-operative complications were uncommon in the reviewed cases (7% requiring revision), and included fracture of the device, postoperative infection, and extra-osseous positioning of varying degrees. The normal peri-operative image appearance is detailed, and imaging findings were identified for each complication in this cohort. Additional incidental variations in postoperative imaging appearance and potential complications are discussed.

CONCLUSION

This paper explores the utilization of the IlluminOss Stabilization system with focus on its application in the management of MBD-related fractures. Emphasis was placed on peri-operative imaging and equipping both radiologists and clinicians to be familiar with the distinctive imaging characteristics and potential complications associated with IlluminOss system in the setting of oncologic imaging.