[Callotasis for segmental bone defects in the femur].

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical efficacy of callotasis for pathological segmental defects in child femur.

METHODS

Thirty-nine patients with segmental femoral defects suffered from suppurative osteomyelitis were treated with the bilateral, unilateral external fixation frame or intramedullary callotasis. The rolongational rate was from 2 to 2.5 cm per month after the operation.

RESULTS

After a 13 to 57 month follow-up, all cases were healed according to clinical examination and radiological observation. The prolongational length ranged from 9 to 31 centimeters. Average ratio of prolongation reached 49%. The healing index was 30 d/cm, and the healing time of non-union was 134 days. No recurrent suppurative osteomyelitis or fracture was observed.

CONCLUSION

Callotasis is a reliable, simple and hyperadaptable method for femural segmental defects.