Calcium phosphate cement in musculoskeletal tumor surgery.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is an injectable biocompatible bone substitute that has been used for various applications in orthopedic surgery. However, no extensive clinical studies of the use of CPC to fill bone cavities after curettage of musculoskeletal tumors have been reported. The present study reviewed the results for 56 musculoskeletal tumors treated by curettage and CPC implantation.

METHODS

Assessment was based on clinical examination and radiographic findings. Variables for clinical assessment included pain, limb function, and complications. Median follow-up was 18.5 months (range 6-47 months).

RESULTS

One patient experienced post-operative fractures. Three patients displayed local recurrence. One patient developed post-operative superficial wound infection, and two patients with large bony defect exhibited non-infectious serous discharge. No serious adverse effects such as deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism were encountered. In all cases, CPC was radiographically well adapted to the surrounding host bone as of final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

CPC appears to offer a useful bone substitute for the treatment of musculoskeletal tumors. As the follow-up period for this study was short, further long-term follow-up studies are needed.