Custom-made 3D-printed prosthesis and free vascularised fibula for humeral reconstruction after osteosarcoma resection in a 13-year-old patient

Abstract

Surgical reconstruction after humeral resection represents a challenging issue in orthopaedic oncology. Particularly in paediatric patients, the main concerns are maintaining limb function and reconstruction longevity. We describe a novel strategy of humeral reconstruction based on the use of a three-dimensional-printed custom-made prosthesis in a 13-year-old patient diagnosed with osteosarcoma. The implant was specifically designed to sustain the native head, which was spared, as it was not involved by the neoplastic tissue. The mechanical support the prosthesis provided was associated with the biological stimulus of a free vascularised fibular graft to obtain an anatomic, functional and stable construct. This solution has had good longevity, and after 3 years of follow-up, the patient still shows excellent limb function and personal satisfaction.