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J Reconstr Microsurg 2001; 17(3): 151-156
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-14345
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

One-Bone Forearm Formation Using Vascularized Fibula Graft for Massive Bone Defect of the Forearm with Infection: Case Report

Kouichi Arai1 , Satoshi Toh1 , Masahiro Yasumura1 , Yoshitaka Okamoto2 , Seiko Harata1
  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hirosaki University School of Medicine; Aomori, Japan and
  • 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Towada Municipal Hospital, Aomori, Japan
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Massive long-bone defects of greater than 6 cm are difficult to treat with conventional bone grafts, and other methods are sometimes recommended, such as vascularized bone grafts or bone transport using the Ilizarov external fixator. The combination of local infection with a massive bone defect exacerbates the problem, and provides an even more negative prognosis. The authors treated a large bone defect of the forearm with local infection, using a one-bone forearm formation with a large vascularized fibula graft. They attached an adequate amount of muscle fascia to the vascularized fibula, which was useful not only for coverage of the skin defect, but also for treatment of the local infection. Twenty months after surgery, elbow and hand functions were maintained, and the patient had no disturbance of hand function in daily activities, although rotation of the forearm was sacrificed.

KEYWORD

One-bone forearm - vascularized fibula graft - massive bone defect - local infection - forearm

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