Bipolar Head Perforation With Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Thigh: A Case Report With Literature Review.

BACKGROUND/AIM: High complication rates during the perioperative management of sarcomas around the pelvis have been reported; however, few include the detailed clinical course or complications in the late postoperative period. Radiotherapy is a multidisciplinary strategy for treating sarcomas. However, irradiated bone and soft tissues show a permanent loss of repair and immunocompetence. We present a case of pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma of the thigh that resulted in acetabular collapse induced by radiation and intestinal perforation during long-term follow-up. Additionally, we discuss the risk factors for late complications and pelvic reconstruction methods.

CASE REPORT: A 75-year-old man presented with a 1-month history of a recurring fever. Ten years prior, he was diagnosed with pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma of the right thigh and underwent a wide resection and bipolar hip arthroplasty, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Radiographs showed central dislocation of the bipolar head. Computed tomography revealed free air in the hip joint and thickening of the colon wall. Colonoscopy revealed displacement of the bipolar head into the colon wall. Colon resection and hip disarticulation were performed, as the bipolar head was contaminated with intestinal contents. Currently, he is able to walk stably with a walker, and there is no evidence of recurrence or metastasis of the tumor.

CONCLUSION: Irradiation of the periacetabular bone may induce resorptive destruction, resulting in future structural failure. Hardware should not be used for periacetabular bone reconstruction; the risk of pelvic organ damage should be considered when the acetabular collapse becomes deteriorated. Therefore, other reliable and permanent reconstruction options are required.