Effects of liquid nitrogen treatment on the proliferation of osteosarcoma and the biomechanical properties of normal bone

Posterior Column Reconstruction of the Lumbar Spine Using En Bloc Resected Vertebral Arch in Spinal Tumor and Deformity Surgeries

Introduction

In high-grade spinal osteotomy involving large anterior column resection, restoration of the structural integrity of the posterior column at the osteotomy site can reduce postoperative instrumentation failure (IF). This study aimed to describe our technique of posterior strut bone grafting using an en bloc resected vertebral arch, which is useful for posterior column reconstruction after high-grade osteotomies during surgeries for spinal tumor and deformity in the lower lumbar spine.

Technical Note

Using a posterior approach, en bloc resection of the targeted vertebral arch was performed in accordance with the surgical technique for total en bloc spondylectomy (TES). The posterior elements in the upper and lower adjacent vertebrae were separated by a significant space after vertebral body resection followed by cage insertion in TES or anterior column osteotomy followed by correction in deformity surgery. To create a new posterior column, the en bloc resected vertebral arch was placed at 90° rotation to bridge the upper and lower vertebral arches. Using this technique, an abundant amount of bone chips made from the resected vertebral elements were placed over the en bloc resected posterior arch as an additional bone graft. The technique was used in three patients who underwent TES for spinal tumors and in one patient who underwent grade 4 osteotomy for adult spinal deformity in the lower lumbar spine. One year after surgery, computed tomography showed that the structural integrity of bony fusion was successfully achieved between the en bloc resected arch and the posterior elements of the adjacent vertebrae in all patients and showed no postoperative IFs.

Conclusions

This bone graft technique created new continuity of the posterior column after high-grade osteotomies in the lower lumbar spine. Bone fusion was achieved in the posterior elements to prevent IF after surgery.

Does A Single Osteotomy Technique for Frozen Autograft (Pedicled Freezing) in Patients With Malignant Bone Tumors of the Long Bones Achieve Union and Local Tumor Control?

BACKGROUND

Biological reconstruction by replanting the resected tumor-bearing segment is preferred by some surgeons when caring for a patient with a bone sarcoma. Frozen autografts are advantageous because they are cost-effective, provide an excellent fit, permit the maintenance of osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties, and are not associated with transmission of viral disease. The pedicle frozen autograft technique, in which only one osteotomy is made for the freezing procedure, keeping the affected segment in continuity with the host bone and soft tissue instead of two osteotomies, maintains the affected segment with the host bone and soft tissue. This could restore blood flow more rapidly in a frozen autograft than in a free-frozen autograft with two osteotomies.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) In what proportion of patients was union achieved by 6 months using this technique of frozen autografting? (2) What complications were observed in a small series using this approach? (3) What was the function of these patients as determined by Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score? (4) What proportion of patients experienced local recurrence?

METHODS

Between 2014 and 2017, we treated 87 patients for primary sarcomas of the femur, tibia, or humerus. Of those, we considered patients who could undergo intercalary resection and showed a good response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy as potentially eligible for this technique. Based on these criteria, 49% (43 patients) were eligible; a further 9% (eight) were excluded because of inadequate bone quality (defined as cortical thickness less than 50% by CT assessment). We retrospectively studied 32 patients who were treated with a single metaphyseal osteotomy, the so-called pedicle freezing technique, which uses liquid nitrogen. There were 20 men and 12 women. The median age was 18 years (range 13 to 48 years). The median follow-up duration was 55 months (range 48 to 63 months). Patients were assessed clinically and radiologically regarding union (defined in this study as bony bridging of three of four cortices by 6 months), the proportion of patients experiencing local recurrence, the occurrence of nononcologic complications, and MSTS scores.

RESULTS

Three percent (one of 32) of the patients had nonunion (no union by 9 months). The median MSTS score was 90%, with no evidence of metastases at the final follow-up interval. Nine percent (three of 32) of our patients died. The local recurrence rate was 3.1% (one of 32 patients). The mean restricted disease-free survival time at 60 months (5 years) was 58 months (95% CI 55 to 62 months). Twenty-five percent of patients (eight of 32) experienced nononcologic complications. This included superficial skin burns (two patients), superficial wound infection (two patients), deep venous thrombosis (one patient), transient nerve palsy (two patients), and permanent nerve palsy (one patient).

CONCLUSION

This treatment was reasonably successful in patients with sarcomas of the femur, tibia, and humerus who could undergo an intercalary resection, and this treatment did not involve the epiphysis and upper metaphysis. It avoids a second osteotomy site as in prior reports of freezing techniques, and union was achieved in all but one patient. There were few complications or local recurrences, and the patients' function was shown to be good. This technique cannot be used in all long-bone sarcomas, but we believe this is a reasonable alternative treatment for patients who show a good response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, those in whom intercalary resection is feasible while retaining at least 2 cm of the subchondral area, and in those who have adequate bone stock to withstand the freezing process. Experienced surgeons who are well trained on the recycling technique in specialized centers are crucial to perform the technique. Further study is necessary to see how this technique compares with other reconstruction options.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study.

A comparative study of reconstruction modalities after knee joint-preserving tumor resection: reconstruction with a custom-made endoprosthesis versus reconstruction with a liquid nitrogen-inactivated autologous bone graft

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the feasibility, complications, graft survival rate, and clinical outcomes of joint-preserving resection using a custom-made endoprosthesis and liquid nitrogen-inactivated autologous bone graft reconstruction in patients with malignant bone tumors around the knee joint.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 23 consecutive patients who underwent joint preservation surgery between 2008 and 2018 at our center. The study cohort included 13 patients who underwent custom-made endoprosthesis reconstruction and 10 who underwent liquid nitrogen-inactivated autologous bone graft reconstruction. The resected bone length, distance between the resection line and the joint, intraoperative blood loss, operation time, complications, and MSTS were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 68.5 months in the endoprosthesis group and 65.3 months in the inactivated autograft group. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics, resected bone length, distance between the resection line and the joint, or intraoperative blood loss between the two groups. The operative time was longer in the inactivated bone graft group than in the endoprosthesis group (p < 0.001). The endoprosthesis group had more complications (six patients) and reoperations due to complications (five) than the inactivated autograft group (one), but there was no significant difference in the incidence of complications between the two groups (p = 0.158). The inactivated autograft group had one patient with type 1b complications, while the endoprosthesis group had one with type 1b complications, one with type 2b complications, and one with type 4a complications. One patient in the endoprosthesis group with type 5a complications experienced two soft tissue recurrences. The overall 5-year survival rate was 86.5% and the graft survival and final limb salvage rates were 100% in both groups. After the follow-up period, the mean MSTS scores were 91% ± 7% in the endoprosthesis group and 94% ± 6% in the inactivated autograft group, with no significant difference (p = 0.280).

CONCLUSION

Joint-preserving resection is a reliable and effective tumor resection method that can achieve good postoperative function. There were no significant differences in the incidence of complications, overall survival rate, or graft survival rate between the two groups.

Is liquid nitrogen recycled bone and vascular fibula combination the biological reconstruction of choice in lower extremity long bone tumor-related defects?

INTRODUCTION

Combination techniques, which encompass the combined use of vascularized bone grafts with massive allografts or autografts (recycled bone grafts), are especially important in the biological reconstruction of tumor-related lower extremity long bone defects. Liquid nitrogen recycled bone (frozen autograft) and free vascular fibula graft (FVFG) combination, which was coined as the "frozen hotdog (FH)" method by the authors, has not been as widely used nor its outcomes reported for significantly sized patient groups. This study aims to provide an answer to whether FH is a safe and effective reconstructive tool for limb salvage in malignant tumors of the lower extremity regarding radiological, functional, and oncological outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-six (male/female: 33/33) patients, who underwent FH reconstruction for tumor-related massive defects of lower extremity long bones between 2006 and 2020, were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age was 15.8 (3.8-46.7) years. The most common tumor localizations were distal femur (42.4%) and proximal tibia (21.2%) while classic osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma were the most common pathologies (60.6% and 22.7%, respectively). Mean resection and FVFG lengths were 160 (90-320) mm and 192 (125-350) mm, respectively. The mean follow-up was 73.9 (24-192) months.

RESULTS

The mean MSTS score was 25.4 (15-30) and the mean ISOLS radiographic score was 22.6 (13-24). Mean time to full weight bearing without any assistive devices was 15.4 (6-40) months and the median time was 12 months. MSTS score negatively correlated with resected segment length and vascular fibula length (p < 0.001; p = 0.006). Although full contact apposition of the FH segment correlated with earlier full weight bearing compared to partial apposition (mean 13.7 vs. 17.9 months) (p = 0.042), the quality of reduction did not affect the ISOLS radiographic score at LFU. Overall limb survival rate was 96.3% at 5 and 10 years while FH survival rate was 91.0% and 88.1% at 5 and 10 years. Local recurrence-free survival rates were 88.8% and 85.9%, and overall survival was 89.9% and 86.1% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Limb length discrepancy was the most common complication with 34 (51.5%) patients while shell nonunion was seen in 21 (31.8%) patients and graft fracture in 6 (9.1%).

CONCLUSION

The "FH" method is a safe, effective, and extremely cost-efficient reconstructive tool for tumor-related lower extremity long bone defects. Patient compliance to protracted weight-bearing, ensuring the vitality of the FVFG, and achieving an oncologically safe resection are key factors for a successful outcome.

Graft Survivals after Reconstruction Using Tumor-Bearing Frozen Bone in the Extremities

Tumor-bearing frozen autografts have been widely used for reconstruction of bone defects caused by tumor resection. However, some patients undergo removal of the grafted bone due to surgical site infection, tumor recurrence, or fractures of the grafted bone. In this retrospective cohort study, predictive factors for graft survival were investigated in 123 patients who underwent reconstructions using a tumor-bearing frozen autograft after bone tumor resection of the extremities. To determine the independent predictors of graft survival, the association between various parameters and graft survival was investigated. The graft survival rates were 83.2% at 5 years and 70.2% at 10 years. Among the 123 frozen autografts, 25 (20.3%) were removed because of complications. In univariate analyses, male sex, BMI of ≥23.6, tibia, and chemotherapy were significantly associated with poor graft survival, whereas the pedicle/hemicortical freezing procedure was significantly associated with better graft survival. Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards regression model revealed that BMI of ≥23.6 (HR, 3.4; p = 0.005), tibia (HR, 2.3; p = 0.047), and freezing procedure (HR, 0.3; p = 0.016) were independently associated with graft survival. Based on the results, pedicle or hemicortical freezing techniques are recommended in cases where these techniques can be applied.

Case report: Limb-sparing surgery of tibial chondrosarcoma with frozen autologous bone graft using liquid nitrogen in a dog

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary bone tumor after osteosarcoma in dogs. Chondrosarcoma has a good prognosis owing to its low metastatic rate and long survival time, even with amputation alone. However, amputation risks reducing the quality of life in patients with other orthopedic diseases of the non-affected limb, neurological diseases, or large body size. Limb-sparing surgery with frozen autologous bone grafting using liquid nitrogen allows bone quality to be maintained in the normal bone area while killing tumor cells, thereby preserving the affected limb. Thus, it is expected to maintain the quality of life. We describe herein limb-sparing surgery for tibial chondrosarcoma with frozen autologous bone graft using liquid nitrogen in an 8-year and 8-month-old castrated male bulldog weighing 29.2 kg. The patient had chondrosarcoma of the left tibia, suspected cranial cruciate ligament rupture of the right stifle, and degenerative lumbosacral stenosis. In such a case, amputation would increase the burden on the non-affected limb or spine, which could cause difficulty in walking; therefore, we performed limb-sparing surgery. Postoperatively, although a circumduction gait associated with stifle arthrodesis remained, the patient maintained the quality of life for 20 months, and the owner was satisfied with the results.

Development of a novel regenerative therapy for malignant bone tumors using an autograft containing tumor inactivated by high hydrostatic pressurization (HHP)

Surgical resection of malignant bone tumors leads to significant defects in the normal surrounding tissues that should be reconstructed to avoid amputation. Our research aimed to inactivate osteosarcoma (OS)-affected bone to obtain autologous bone grafts for bone defect reconstruction using a novel therapy called high hydrostatic pressurization (HHP) therapy. The key points are complete tumor death and preservation of the non-denatured native extracellular matrix (ECM) and bone tissue by HHP. Previously, we found that HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min can completely inactivate cells in normal skin and skin tumors, including malignant melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma while maintaining their original biochemical properties and biological components. Based on our previous research, this study used HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min to eradicate OS. We prepared an OS cell line (LM8), pressurized it at 200 MPa for 10 min, and confirmed its inactivation through morphological observation, WST-8 assay, and live/dead assay. We then injected OS cells with or without HHP into the bone marrow of the murine tibia, after which we implanted tumor tissues with or without HHP into the anterior surface of the tibia. After HHP, OS cells did not proliferate and were assessed using a live/dead assay. The pressurized cells and tumors did not grow after implantation. The pressurized bone was well prepared as tumor-free autologous bone tissues, resulting in the complete eradication of OS. This straightforward and short-pressing treatment was proven to process the tumor-affected bone to make a transplantable and tumor-free autologous bone substitute.

Joint-preservation surgery for bone sarcoma in adolescents and young adults

Bone sarcoma often occurs in childhood, as well as in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). AYAs differ from pediatric patients in that their bone is skeletally mature and the physis has almost disappeared with the completion of growth. Although AYAs spend less time outside, they often participate in sports activities, as well as driving, working, and raising a family, which are natural activities in daily living. Multidisciplinary approaches involving imaging, multi-agent chemotherapy, surgical procedures, and careful postoperative care has facilitated an increase in limb-sparing surgery for bone sarcoma. In addition, recent advances in imaging modalities and surgical techniques enables joint-preservation surgery, preserving the adjacent epiphysis, for selected patients following the careful assessment of the tumor margins and precise tumor excision. An advantage of this type of surgery is that it retains the native function of the adjacent joint, which differs from joint-prosthesis replacement, and provides excellent limb function. Various reconstruction procedures are available for joint-preserving surgery, including allograft, vascularized fibula graft, distraction osteogenesis, and tumor-devitalized autografts. However, procedure-related complications may occur, including non-union, infection, fracture, and implant failure, and surgeons should fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of these procedures. The longevity of the normal limb function for natural activities and the curative treatment without debilitation from late toxicities should be considered as a treatment goal for AYA patients. This review discusses the concept of joint-preservation surgery, types of reconstruction procedures associated with joint-preservation surgery, and current treatment outcomes.

Do Liquid Nitrogen-treated Tumor-bearing Nerve Grafts Have the Capacity to Regenerate, and Do They Pose a Risk of Local Recurrence? A Study in Rats

BACKGROUND

Under most circumstances, the resection of soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities can be limb-sparing, function-preserving oncologic resections with adequate margins. However, en bloc resection may require resection of the major peripheral nerves, causing poor function in the extremities. Although liquid nitrogen treatment has been used to sterilize malignant bone tumors, its use in the preparation of nerve grafts has, to our knowledge, not been reported. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the tumor recurrence and function after peripheral nerve reconstruction using liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing nerves in a rat model.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Do liquid nitrogen-treated frozen autografts have regeneration capabilities? (2) Do liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing nerves cause any local recurrences in vivo in a rat model?

METHODS

Experiment 1: Twelve-week-old female Wistar rats, each weighing 250 g to 300 g, were used. A 10-mm-long section of the right sciatic nerve was excised; the prepared nerve grafts were bridge-grafted through end-to-end suturing. The rats were grouped as follows: an autograft group, which underwent placement of a resected sciatic nerve after it was sutured in the reverse orientation, and a frozen autograft group, which underwent bridging of the nerve gap using a frozen autograft. The autograft was frozen in liquid nitrogen, thawed at room temperature, and then thawed in distilled water before application. The third group was a resection group in which the nerve gap was not reconstructed. Twenty-four rats were included in each group, and six rats per group were evaluated at 4, 12, 24, and 48 weeks postoperatively. To assess nerve regeneration after reconstruction using the frozen nerve graft in the nontumor rat model, we evaluated the sciatic functional index, tibialis anterior muscle wet weight ratio, electrophysiologic parameters (amplitude and latency), muscle fiber size (determined with Masson trichrome staining), lower limb muscle volume, and immunohistochemical findings (though neurofilament staining and S100 protein produced solely and uniformly by Schwann cells associated with axons). Lower limb muscle volume was calculated via CT before surgery (0 weeks) and at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 32, 40, and 48 weeks after surgery. Experiment 2: Ten-week-old female nude rats (F344/NJcl-rnu/rnu rats), each weighing 100 g to 150 g, were injected with HT1080 (human fibrosarcoma) cells near the bilateral sciatic nerves. Two weeks after injection, the tumor grew to a 10-mm-diameter mass involving the sciatic nerves. Subsequently, the tumor was resected with the sciatic nerves, and tumor-bearing sciatic nerves were obtained. After liquid nitrogen treatment, the frozen tumor-bearing nerve graft was trimmed to a 5-mm-long tissue and implanted into another F344/NJcl-rnu/rnu rat, in which a 5-mm-long section of the sciatic nerve was resected to create a nerve gap. Experiment 2 was performed with 12 rats; six rats were evaluated at 24 and 48 weeks postoperatively. To assess nerve regeneration and tumor recurrence after nerve reconstruction using frozen tumor-bearing nerve grafts obtained from the nude rat with human fibrosarcoma involving the sciatic nerve, the sciatic nerve's function and histologic findings were evaluated in the same way as in Experiment 1.

RESULTS

Experiment 1: The lower limb muscle volume decreased once at 4 weeks in the autograft and frozen autograft groups and gradually increased thereafter. The tibialis anterior muscle wet weight ratio, sciatic functional index, muscle fiber size, and electrophysiologic evaluation showed higher nerve regeneration potential in the autograft and frozen autograft groups than in the resection group. The median S100-positive areas (interquartile range [IQR]) in the autograft group were larger than those in the frozen autograft group at 12 weeks (0.83 [IQR 0.78 to 0.88] versus 0.57 [IQR 0.53 to 0.61], difference of medians 0.26; p = 0.04) and at 48 weeks (0.86 [IQR 0.83 to 0.99] versus 0.74 [IQR 0.69 to 0.81], difference of median 0.12; p = 0.03). Experiment 2: Lower limb muscle volume decreased at 4 weeks and gradually increased thereafter. The median muscle fiber size increased from 0.89 (IQR 0.75 to 0.90) at 24 weeks to 1.20 (IQR 1.08 to 1.34) at 48 weeks (difference of median 0.31; p< 0.01). The median amplitude increased from 0.60 (IQR 0.56 to 0.67) at 24 weeks to 0.81 (IQR 0.76 to 0.90) at 48 weeks (difference of median 0.21; p < 0.01). Despite tumor involvement and freezing treatment, tumor-bearing frozen grafts demonstrated nerve regeneration activity, with no local recurrence observed at 48 weeks postoperatively in nude rats.

CONCLUSION

Tumor-bearing frozen nerve grafts demonstrated nerve regeneration activity, and there was no tumor recurrence in rats in vivo.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A frozen nerve autograft has a similar regenerative potential to that of a nerve autograft. Although the findings in a rat model do not guarantee efficacy in humans, if they are substantiated by large-animal models, clinical trials will be needed to evaluate the efficacy of tumor-bearing frozen nerve grafts in humans.

Biomechanical Analysis of Bone Graft Treated With Pasteurization or Cryotherapy Using Liquid Nitrogen: A Study Using Sheep Bone Model

Osteosarcoma is a common primary malignancy of the bone. Osteosarcoma prognosis improves tremendously when chemotherapy is given in adjunct to surgical intervention. Limb reconstruction with sterilized autologous bone graft stabilized by orthopaedics implants has become a choice of treatment, but the biomechanical property of the bone treated with such sterilization method is a point of concern as a graft with inferior biomechanical property might lead to graft failure. This study compares the biomechanical properties of the bones treated with cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen and pasteurization in the form of four-point bending compression tests. Six sheep tibia bones were used for each group of treatment with one control group where no treatment was given. In the four-point bending test, osteotomy was performed at the tibia; the proximal tibia was treated with liquid nitrogen and pasteurization respectively. The treated bone is then reconstructed with the corresponding distal bone with locking plate and screws (Jiangsu Trauhiu Medical Instrument Co. Ltd., Changzhou, China). The four-point bending test was performed with an Electropulse® E3000 universal testing machine (Instron®, High Wycombe, United Kingdom) and results in the form of maximum compressive load, stress, and strain were collected. Photographic analysis of the fracture location and pattern were documented and analysed. We found that both methods of sterilization did not alter the biomechanical properties of the treated bone to the extent of statistical significance in comparison with the control group. However, other factors such as histological changes post treatment, equipment availability, and long-term outcome must be considered.

Intercalary frozen autografts for reconstruction of bone defects following meta-/diaphyseal tumor resection at the extremities

Background

For patients with malignant limb tumors, salvage surgery can be achieved using endoprosthesis or biological reconstructions like allograft or autograft. In carefully selected patients, resected bone can be recycled after sterilization using methods like autoclaving, irradiation, pasteurization or freezing with liquid nitrogen. We evaluated the clinical outcome and complications of malignant limb tumors treated with intercalary resection and frozen autograft reconstruction.

Methods

We reviewed 33 patients whose malignant bone tumors were treated by wide resection and reconstruction with recycling liquid nitrogen-treated autografts between 2006 and 2017. Limb function, bone union at the osteotomy site and complications were evaluated. Functional outcome was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring system.

Results

The cohort comprised 16 males and 17 females, with a mean age of 35.4 years (14–76 years). The most common tumor was osteosarcoma (7 cases). Tumors were located in the humerus (5), ulna (1), femur (10) and tibia (17). The mean follow-up was 49.9 months (range 12–127 months). Of the 33 patients, 16 remained disease-free, and 3 were alive with disease. The mean size of the defect after tumor resection was 11.6 cm (range 6–25 cm). Bone union was achieved in 32 patients, with a mean union time of 8.8 months (range 4–18 months). Complications included 1 graft nonunion, 2 infections (1 superficial, 1 deep infection), 1 leg length discrepancy, 2 graft fractures and 3 local recurrences. The mean MSTS score was 87.2% (range 70–100%).

Conclusion

Liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing autograft is an effective option for biological reconstruction after meta-/diaphyseal tumor resection of long bones. This method has excellent clinical outcomes and is especially recommended for patients with no severe osteolytic bone tumors.

MUTARS® Humero pro Femur Replacement: A Novel Reconstructive Procedure after Malignant Bone Tumor Resection of the Femur in Young Children

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Limb-preserving treatment in young children suffering malignant bone tumors remains challenging.

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MUTARS® Humero pro Femur replacement represents a salvage procedure.

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Distal humerus component serves as a hinged knee joint after 180° rotation.

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Satisfactory complication rates and functional results.

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Subsequent conversion to conventional tumor endoprosthesis.

Limb-preserving surgery in young children suffering malignant bone tumor of the femur is challenging due to the specific anatomical conditions. Extendable tumor endoprostheses are often oversized, while custom-made endoprostheses do not provide the intraoperatively required variability regarding reconstruction length. Allo- and autograft replacements, on the other hand, show high complication and revision rates. We report a novel reconstructive procedure after resection of malignant bone tumors of the femur in young children, and present our preliminary results of this technique.

Patella cryo-free technique with recycled frozen autograft reconstruction preserves extensor mechanism for proximal tibial malignancy

BACKGROUNDS

We designed a patella cryo-free method to protect patella from cryoinjury during recycled frozen bone-prosthesis-composite reconstruction for proximal tibial malignancy. This study aimed to use animal model to ensure safety and efficacy of this method and reported our clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Six swine proximal tibias along with patella and patellar tendon were harvested and dived into group A (n = 3, traditional patella freezing) and group B (n = 3, patella cryo-free). Temperature curve measurement, histological analysis, and TUNEL assay were performed in both groups. Clinically, we retrospectively reviewed 23 patients with proximal tibia malignant bone tumor (13: traditional patella freezing method; 10: patella cryo-free method). The clinical and functional outcomes were reported and compared in both groups.

RESULTS

Temperature curve of the group B showed that ideal therapeutic temperature (<-60°C) required to kill tumor cells can be achieved in the proximal tibia while the innocent patella can be kept in room temperature at all time. Histological analysis showed better preservation of the cartilage tissue in patella of group B. TUNEL assay showed significantly more apoptotic cells in the frozen tibia of both groups and frozen patella of group A. When reviewing our clinical results, less complication of the patella as well as better functional preservation were found in patients subjecting to patella cryo-free method. No local recurrence was observed in either group.

CONCLUSION

Patellar cryo-free technique could protect patella from cryoinjury during freezing and therefore preserve more extensor functions for patients with proximal tibial malignant bone tumors.

Technical Case Report of a Cranioplasty With ex vivo Frozen Ostoblastic Bone Graft From Large Skull Metastasis

Objective: Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy has shown efficacy in the treatment of bone tumors of the extremities with good oncologic and functional outcomes. However, its application in metastatic skull tumors has been rarely reported and whether the adjuvant radiotherapy affects the future bone healing is not yet explored. We report an immediate cranioplasty with the resected osteoblastic bone, which underwent ex vivo cryotherapy, and discuss the surgical techniques and postoperative images. Methods: A 58-year-old man with esophageal adenocarcinoma, undergoing chemoradiotherapy, presented with a rapidly enlarging scalp mass for 5 months. Imaging revealed an enhancing mass, centered in the frontal skull bone with extracranial and intracranial invasion, suggestive of osteoblastic metastasis. After preoperative transarterial embolization, the tumor was excised en bloc. Immediate cranioplasty was performed with the osteoblastic bone graft after ex vivo cryotherapy. It was soaked in liquid nitrogen for 20 min, thawed at room temperature for 15 min, and soaked in povidone-iodine solution for 10 min. Then, the bone graft was fixed to its original place. Pathologic examination revealed metastasis originating from the esophagus. He underwent adjuvant radiotherapy for local tumor control. Results: He had an uneventful clinical course without any neurologic deficit. Brain imaging during the six-month follow-up showed no tumor recurrence and partial bony union. Conclusions: Cranioplasty using an autologous bone graft with ex vivo cryotherapy was helpful in the reconstruction of osteoblastic metastatic skull tumor treatment. It was a simple and cost-effective procedure that achieved satisfactory cosmetic results without negatively impacting bone healing, even after adjuvant radiotherapy.

Challenge of treating skeletal muscle metastasis during the COVID-19 pandemic in a low-resource setting

Background

The authors report on an extremely rare case of skeletal muscle metastasis from primary lung cancer that involved the radial nerve and humerus, which was ‘over-treated’ with wide tumour resection and frozen autograft reconstruction upon misdiagnosis of sarcoma by intraoperative frozen section, amid pressure of expediting hospital care in a low-resource setting during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old male living outside Metro Manila presented with painful mass in his left distal arm during the enhanced community quarantine, and requested admission upon testing negative for COVID-19. Imaging studies suggested a diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma involving the radial nerve and humerus, and intending to prevent nosocomial severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2infection of patient, treatment was expedited by foregoing biopsy and opting for intraoperative frozen section prior to resection. Frozen section findings suggested malignancy intraoperatively, and surgical team proceeded with wide tumour resection and frozen autograft reconstruction of the humerus using plates and screws. However, permanent sections revealed metastatic carcinoma from primary non-small cell lung cancer, with positron emission tomography (PET) scan confirming lung mass in the right apical lobe.

Conclusion

The report concludes that establishment of a definite tumour diagnosis by final histopathological analysis is indispensable, even when planning for emergent surgery in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reconstruction of the elbow using pedicle joint freezing after wide excision for soft tissue sarcoma: A case report

A 35-year-old man presented with a four-year history of a growing mass on the anterior aspect of his left elbow. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a soft tissue tumor in the brachialis muscle extending to the cubital fossa. Following an open biopsy, the tumor was diagnosed as a monophasic fibrous synovial sarcoma. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the patient underwent wide excision and reconstruction of the elbow joint with a pedicle frozen autograft. At the final follow-up four years after surgery, the elbow range of motion was 0-120˚. Although there were signs of osteoarthritis, there was no narrowing of the joint -, and the patient experienced only mild pain. To the best of our knowledge, the present case report is the first to describe wide tumor excision and reconstruction using a pedicle frozen autograft of the elbow. This method should be considered after excision of malignant bone and soft tissue tumors, especially in non-weight-bearing joints. Further cases have to be evaluated to understand the complications and long-term prognosis of this procedure.

A Sporadic Pediatric Case of Huge Intracranial Supratentorial Desmoid-type Fibromatosis

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare locally aggressive soft tissue neoplasm without metastatic potential. Here, we report a very rare sporadic case of an intracranial supratentorial extradural DTF measuring 82 mm in a 1-year-old girl, that recurred twice following surgery over the course of 16 months, requiring two other surgeries. In three surgeries, we resected a huge tumor with the dura which was thought to be tumor origin and removed this tumor infiltrated the frontal skull base by drilling widely. Furthermore, we treated the tumor invading the bone flap using liquid nitrogen for 20 minutes, and subsequently used it to perform a cranioplasty. This tumor has not recurred for past 8 months. DTF invading the skull base is prone to recurrence, and liquid nitrogen treatment is considered to be effective in pediatric patients, who need cranioplasty with tumor-infiltrating autologous bone flaps.

Abscopal Effect of Frozen Autograft Reconstruction Combined with an Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Analyzed Using a Metastatic Bone Tumor Model

We evaluated the abscopal effect of re-implantation of liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing bone grafts and the synergistic effect of anti-PD-1 (programmed death-1) therapy using a bone metastasis model, created by injecting MMT-060562 cells into the bilateral tibiae of 6-8-week-old female C3H mice. After 2 weeks, the lateral tumors were treated by excision, cryotreatment using liquid nitrogen, excision with anti-PD-1 treatment, and cryotreatment with anti-PD-1 treatment. Anti-mouse PD-1 4H2 was injected on days 1, 6, 12, and 18 post-treatment. The mice were euthanized after 3 weeks; the abscopal effect was evaluated by focusing on growth inhibition of the abscopal tumor. The re-implantation of frozen autografts significantly inhibited the growth of the remaining abscopal tumors. However, a more potent abscopal effect was observed in the anti-PD-1 antibody group. The number of CD8+ T cells infiltrating the abscopal tumor and tumor-specific interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-producing spleen cells increased in the liquid nitrogen-treated group compared with those in the excision group, with no significant difference. The number was significantly higher in the anti-PD-1 antibody-treated group than in the non-treated group. Overall, re-implantation of tumor-bearing frozen autograft has an abscopal effect on abscopal tumor growth, although re-implantation of liquid nitrogen-treated bone grafts did not induce a strong T-cell response or tumor-suppressive effect.

Periodic injections of adipose-derived stem cell sheets attenuate osteoarthritis progression in an experimental rabbit model

Background

Subcutaneous adipose tissue represents an abundant source of multipotent adult stem cells named as Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). With a cell sheet approach, ADSCs survive longer, and can be delivered in large quantities. We investigated whether intra-articular ADSC sheets attenuated osteoarthritis (OA) progression in a rabbit anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model.

Methods

Fabricating medium containing ascorbate-2-phosphate was used to enhance collagen protein secretion by the ADSCs to make ADSC sheets. At 4 weeks after ACLT, autologous ADSC sheets were injected intra-articularly into the right knee (ADSC sheets group), and autologous cell death sheets treated by liquid nitrogen were injected into the left knee (control group). Subsequent injections were administered once weekly. Femoral condyles were compared macroscopically and histologically.

Results

Macroscopically, OA progression was significantly milder in the ADSC sheets than in the control groups. Histologically, control knees showed obvious erosions in the medial and lateral condyles, while cartilage was retained predominantly in the ADSC sheets group. Immunohistochemically, MMP-1, MMP-13, ADAMTS-4 were less expressive in the ADSC sheets than in the control groups.

Conclusions

Periodic ADSC sheets injections inhibited articular cartilage degeneration without inducing any adverse effects. A large quantity of autologous ADSCs delivered by cell sheets homed to the synovium and protected chondrocytes.

Bone defect reconstruction with autologous bone inactivated with liquid nitrogen after resection of primary limb malignant tumors: An observational study

Surgical treatment of malignant bone tumors comprises tumor resection and reconstruction. The most commonly used reconstruction method is prosthesis replacement, which achieves good early function, but has a high long-term incidence of complications. Another reconstruction option is autologous bone replantation, which has the advantages of anatomical matching and no need for large bone bank support. Few studies have evaluated reconstruction with liquid nitrogen-inactivated autogenous bone.The present study aimed to evaluate the oncological results, bone healing results, complications, and indications of reconstruction with liquid nitrogen-inactivated autogenous bone grafts.The study population comprised 21 consecutive patients. The tumor site was the tibia in 9 cases, femur in 8, and humerus in 4. There were 37 osteotomy ends in total. After freezing and rewarming, the medullary cavity of the autogenous bone was filled with antibiotic bone cement. Seventeen patients received bilateral plate fixation, 2 received intramedullary nail and distal plate fixation, and 2 received single plate fixation.The average follow-up was 31 ± 6 months. Eighteen patients survived without tumors, and the 3-year survival rate was 80.4%. All cases had adequate surgical margins, but recurrence developed in 1 patient. Metastasis occurred in 3 patients, who all died of metastasis. Intraoperative inactivated bone fracture occurred in 1 patient, and screw breakage was found in 1 patient. Nonunion occurred at 1 humeral diaphysis osteotomy site, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up; the average healing time of the other 35 ends was 13 ± 6 months, and the bone healing rate was 97.2%. The average bone healing times in the metaphysis and diaphysis were 9 ± 3 months and 15 ± 6 months (P = .003). The average bone healing times in the upper and lower limbs were 16.6 ± 7.4 months and 12.3 ± 5.8 months (P = .020). The average Muscle and Skeletal Tumor Society score was 28 ± 3 (21-30) in the 18 survivors.Liquid nitrogen-inactivated autologous bone replantation for primary malignant limb tumor was safe and effective, as shown by the relatively low complication rate, high bone healing rate, and satisfactory postoperative function. This is a reliable biological reconstruction method for malignant bone tumors with specific site and bone destruction characteristics.

Is frozen tumour-bearing autograft with concurrent vascularized fibula an alternative to the Capanna technique for the intercalary reconstruction after resection of osteosarcoma in the lower limb?

AIMS

The use of frozen tumour-bearing autograft combined with a vascularized fibular graft (VFG) represents a new technique for biological reconstruction of massive bone defect. We have compared the clinical outcomes between this technique and Capanna reconstruction.

METHODS

From June 2011 to January 2016 a retrospective study was carried out of patients with primary osteosarcoma of lower limbs who underwent combined biological intercalary reconstruction. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the reconstructive technique: frozen tumour-bearing autograft combined with concurrent VFG (Group 1) and the Capanna method (Group 2). Demographics, operating procedures, oncological outcomes, graft union, limb function, and postoperative complications were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 23 patients were identified for analysis: eight in Group 1 and 15 in Group 2. There was no difference in the demographics (age, sex, and affected site) and operating procedures (resection length, duration of surgery, and blood loss) between the two groups. No significant difference was found in local recurrence in Group 1 versus Group 2 (p = 0.585). Mean union time for the frozen autograft-host junction was 8.4 months (7.0 to 11.0), significantly earlier than for the allograft-host junction in Group 2 (mean 14.1 months (10.0 to 28.0); p < 0.001). Mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores in groups 1 and 2 were 90.3% (SD 7.4%) and 88.0% (SD 9.0%), respectively, with no significant statistical difference (p = 0.535). In terms of complications, infection (n = 1, 6.7%) and delayed union (n = 2, 13.3%) occurred in Group 2, but no such complications were observed in Group 1.

CONCLUSION

Frozen tumour-bearing autograft in combination with VFG can be used as an alternative to the Capanna reconstruction in properly selected patients with osteosarcoma. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(5):646-652.

Reconstruction of intercalary bone defect after resection of malignant bone tumor

Due to accurate preoperative imaging techniques, early diagnosis and effective chemotherapy, many tumors arising in the metaphyseo-diaphyseal regions of long bones can be segmentally resected with joint preservation. The intercalary resection of malignant bone tumor results in a bone defect which can represent a challenging reconstructive problem. The most commonly used surgical reconstructive options for these defects include biologic reconstructions such as allografts, vascularized fibular grafts, autogenous extracorporeally devitalized tumor bearing bone graft, combination of allografts or devitalized autografts with vascularized fibular grafts, segmental bone transport, or induced membrane technique. Nonbiologic reconstructions, on the other hand, use intercalary endoprostheses. Every patient should be carefully evaluated and the reconstructive option should be individually selected. The aim of this article is to discuss the surgical options of reconstruction of bone defects after intercalary resection of malignant bone tumors with reviewing of their indications, advantages, disadvantages and complications.

Joint-preservation surgery for pediatric osteosarcoma of the knee joint

The multi-disciplinary approach involving imaging, multi-agent chemotherapy, meticulous surgical procedures, and careful postoperative care has facilitated an increase in the use of limb-sparing surgery for pediatric osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma usually occurs around the metaphysis of the distal femur or proximal tibia and needs wide excision with the adjacent joint and replacement by a megaprosthesis. The recent advancement in imaging modalities and surgical techniques supports joint-preservation surgery (JPS), involving the preservation of the adjacent epiphysis, for select patients following careful assessment of the tumor margins and precise tumor excision. An advantage of this surgery is that it maintains the adjacent joint and preserves the growth of the residual epiphysis, which provides excellent limb function. Various reconstruction options are available, including allograft, tumor-devitalized autograft, vascularized fibula graft, distraction osteogenesis, and custom-made implants. However, several complications are inevitable with these options, such as loosening, non-union at the host-graft junction, infection, fracture, implant loosening, breakage, deformity, limb-length discrepancy related to the reconstruction methods, or patient growth in pediatric osteosarcoma. Surgeons should fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure. In this review, we discuss the concept of JPS, types of reconstruction methods, and current treatment outcomes. It is our opinion that the further analysis by multi-institutional setting is necessary to clarify long-term outcomes and establish global guidelines on the indications and surgical procedure for JPS.

Pedicle frozen autograft-prosthesis composite reconstructions for malignant bone tumors of the proximal femur

Background

Limb salvage surgery is becoming increasingly popular after tumor resection in the lower extremity. Biological reconstruction and use of megaprosthesis are main methods for malignant bone tumors of the proximal femur, which remain controversial due to short- and long-term complication in the proximal femur. Tumor-bearing bone treated by liquid nitrogen is one of biological reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the mid- and long-term functional outcomes and complications in patients treated with frozen autograft–prosthesis composite (FAPC) reconstructions in the proximal femur.

Methods

This retrospective study included 19 patients (10 women, 9 men) with malignant tumors of the proximal femur who underwent tumor-wide resection and FAPC reconstruction (mean age, 46 years; range, 9–77 years). The mean follow-up period of 69 months (range, 9–179 months). Functional outcomes, oncological outcome and complications were evaluated by Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score, clinical and radiological examinations.

Results

The overall survival rate was 68.4%, and the mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional score was 26.4 points (88%). FAPC survival rates were 100 and 50% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Five of the 19 patients (26%) had complications: 2 required prosthesis removal and 2 developed a deep infection around acetabular. Wear of the acetabulum occurred in 2 cases, while disease recurrence was occurred in 1 case. There were no cases of greater trochanter avulsion, obvious absorption around frozen bone, prosthesis loosening or leg length discrepancy.

Conclusions

Due to without femoral osteotomy, this technique features satisfactory functional outcome and provide biomechanical stability that is comparable to those of other methods of biological reconstruction or megaprosthesis.

Limb Salvage Using Liquid Nitrogen-Treated Tumour-Bearing Autograft: A Single Institutional Experience of 10 Patients

BACKGROUND

Many reconstruction methods have evolved to offer limb salvage surgery (LSS) to patients with musculoskeletal sarcomas. It can be achieved using endoprosthesis or biological reconstruction methods like allograft or autograft or a combination of both. In carefully selected patients, resected bone can be recycled and reimplanted after sterilisation using methods like irradiation, autoclaving, pasteurisation or liquid nitrogen.

METHODS

From 2010 to 2016, 10 patients with primary musculoskeletal sarcoma underwent limb salvage surgery (LSS) by wide resection of the tumour and reconstruction using recycled autograft treated with liquid nitrogen. Intercalary resection was carried out in six patients and intra-articular in four. The resected bone was dipped in liquid nitrogen for 25 min, thawed at room temperature for 15 min followed by dipping in vancomycin-mixed saline for 10 min. The recycled bone was re-implanted into its original site and stabilised with internal fixation.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up period of 39.6 months (range 6-97 months), all patients had a good function (mean functional score of 80%) with no evidence of local recurrence in the re-implanted bone or otherwise. Union was achieved at 15 of the 16 osteotomy sites with a mean union time of 5.2 months (range 4-7 months) without any additional surgical interventions. In none of the patient, augmentation with vascularised/non-vascularised fibula was done. No complication like fracture of the autograft, implant failure or deep/superficial infection was reported in any patient.

CONCLUSION

Recycled tumour-bearing autograft after treatment with liquid nitrogen is an anatomical, cost-effective, relatively simpler and reliable technique for reconstruction of bone defect after resection in selective primary musculoskeletal sarcoma patients.

The process of bone regeneration from devitalization to revitalization after pedicle freezing with immunohistochemical and histological examination in rabbits

The pedicle freezing procedure by liquid nitrogen is a method for the reconstruction of tumor-bearing bone after malignant tumor resection. However, the regenerative mechanism of bone after the pedicle freezing procedure is unclear. We investigated the complete process from devitalization to revitalization of bone after the pedicle freezing procedure in 13 rabbits. After osteotomy the 5 mm distal femurs were immersed in liquid nitrogen, and the specimens were divided into frozen area and sub-frozen area. The bilateral femurs were harvested for evaluation of bone regeneration by histological and immunohistochemical examination (VEGF, CD31, BMP-2 and Runx2) from 1 week to 52 weeks. The diameter of operating femurs was compared with contralateral femurs from 6 weeks to 52 weeks. No viable cells could be found from 1 to 8 weeks in the frozen area, and a mean 1.83 cm necrotic range were detected in the sub-frozen area. The periosteal reaction, massive fibrous tissue and immature bone matrix invaded from the normal area to the necrotic area from 12 weeks. Subsequently, the necrotic bone was gradually replaced by newly formed bone by creeping substitution, with endochondral and intramembrane bone formation. The diameter of frozen femurs was significantly larger than the contralateral femur at the same period from 8 weeks to 52 weeks (P < 0.01). All immunohistochemical factors were positively expressed in both areas at different time points. The active osteoblasts and microvessel migrated from marrow cavity and periosteum into dead bone. This study suggested that the frozen bone not only provides a scaffold but also possesses excellent osteoinductive properties.

Reconstruction Using Frozen Autograft for Disseminated Phosphaturic Mesenchymal Tumor of the Humerus after a Pathological Fracture

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMTs) that cause tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) occur commonly in the bone with a small and nonaggressive appearance. Here, we report the case of a 67-year-old man with disseminated PMT in the humerus after a pathological fracture. Liquid nitrogen was used as an adjuvant therapy after curettage of the tumor, and the frozen autograft, using a pedicle freezing method, conserved the function of the shoulder joint. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a disseminated PMT in the bone that was treated with a frozen autograft, and this treatment method may be effective for cases in which curettage for PMT in the bone would be inevitably inadequate.

Efficacy of frozen autograft treated with liquid nitrogen in limb-sparing surgery in feline scapular osteosarcoma: A case report

In recent years, a novel technique of limb preservation has been used in human medicine that involves frozen autograft treated with liquid nitrogen. In this case, frozen autograft treatment along with shoulder joint reconstruction was performed in an 11-year-old cat with osteosarcoma of the distal scapula. Surgical site infection, shoulder dislocation, local recurrence, and pulmonary metastases were not reported for 24 months after surgery. Moreover, the patient was able to bear weight on the operated limb after 2 months of surgery, and excellent limb function without lameness was demonstrated after 15 months. The frozen autograft technique is advantageous because it is inexpensive, simple, and retains its initial strength after treatment, and could be a novel treatment in feline osteosarcoma.

Histological findings of regeneration in retrieved pasteurized bone grafts

BACKGROUND

Despite a number of radiologic evaluations of the incorporation of pasteurized bone (PB) in human and histologic evaluations in animal models, there has been a scarce documentation regarding the histologic evaluation of PB from human. Herein, we present histologic findings of regeneration in retrieved PB graft from pediatric and adult patients.

METHODS

PB was retrieved for various reasons in 7 patients (10-52 years old). Two bone pathologists independently counted the number of empty lacunae and lacunae with living cells in up to 10 randomly selected fields on medium-power (H&E, ×200) for each patient. Regeneration of PB was assessed as the ratio of the number of lacunae with nucleated cells to that of whole lacunae, which was defined as the "repair rate (RR)".

RESULTS

The mean interval between initial reconstruction and retrieval (graft removal time; GRT) was 47.4 months (range, 11-144 months). The length of original PBs ranged from 5.8 to 20.6 cm. Microscopic examination of PBs showed areas with empty lacunae indicating necrosis and other areas contained lacunae with nucleated osteocytes, indicative of regeneration. Some Haversian canals of the PBs were filled with fibrovascular tissue and surrounded by lamellar bones including living osteocytes. RR varied widely from 21.7 to 62.4% with a mean of 36.8%. It was much higher in adult patients (46.6-62.4%, mean = 55.3%) than in pediatric patients (21.7-28.6%, mean = 25.3%), which was correlated with GRT (pediatric patients; mean of 14 months, adult patients; mean of 72.3 months). In adult patients, RR was higher in a patient with prosthesis composite in the proximal humerus (Case No. 3; 62.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

RR was higher in whom GRT was longer, being correlated with GRT in retrieved PBs. In terms of our histological observation, PB is thought to be an acceptable temporary biologic spacer in limb-sparing surgery for malignant bone or soft tissue tumors.

Progress in biological reconstruction and enhanced bone revitalization for bone defects

Bone defect reconstruction with artificial materials may produce good functional recovery in the short term. Over time, the durability of artificial materials becomes an issue, and therefore, artificial materials cannot be considered a permanent solution to reconstruction. For long-term outcomes, the goal is to regain function, permanence, and form that are as close to normal as possible. Thus, physiological materials are desirable for use in reconstruction. Biological reconstruction involves the use of materials that are modified in vivo following reconstruction of bone defects. The goal is to achieve bone union, bone revival and remodeling, with biointegration of soft tissue and bone. Allograft use has been the mainstay of bone defect reconstruction in most parts of the world, although in some countries like Japan, allogeneic bone is difficult to obtain due to socio-religious concerns. Therefore, we developed new biological reconstruction techniques to overcome this problem. Bone derived from distraction osteogenesis is autologous bone, which must be an ideal reconstruction material for its biological affinity, strength, resilience, and immunity to infection. When applying this method to patients with malignant disease however, it is important to preserve as much of the local soft tissue as possible, and the clinician must be especially careful of infection and callus formation. Liquid nitrogen treatment of tumor-bearing bone produces equal, if not better, bone revitalization compared to other forms of treatment to date. Reconstruction with liquid nitrogen-treated bone involves resecting the diseased bone and returning it to the body following liquid nitrogen treatment (free-freezing method). Another method involves dislocating the joint proximal to the tumor, or cutting the bone while the distal side remains attached to the body and the limb inverted and treated with liquid nitrogen (pedicle freezing method). When both methods are possible, the pedicle freezing method is preferable since it is performed with minimal osteotomy. Our recent research has looked into the possible role of adipose-derived stem cells in promoting bone fusion and revitalization. This method has produced promising results for the future of biological reconstruction.

Lung metastases regression with increased CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltration following preoperative spinal embolization and total en bloc spondylectomy using tumor-bearing frozen autograft in a patient with spinal metastatic leiomyosarcoma

PURPOSE

To report systemic immunological enhancement following preoperative spinal embolization and total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) using tumor-bearing frozen autograft in a patient with spinal metastatic leiomyosarcoma.

METHODS

A 44-year-old woman with metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma of the lung and L1 vertebra underwent TES following bilateral three-level preoperative segmental artery embolization. Resected tumor-bearing lamina was frozen using liquid nitrogen and used as tumor-bearing bone graft for spinal reconstruction.

RESULTS

Tumor necrosis and obstructing material used in preoperative embolization were detected in the resected specimen of L1. Five days after TES, chest computed tomography scan demonstrated decreased solitary lung mass size without adjuvant treatment. Lobectomy was performed for the lung metastasis 42 days after TES. Infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocyte into tumor tissue significantly increased in shrunk lung metastasis. On the other hand, slight infiltration in both the resected L1 and primary uterine lesion was observed. Six months after TES, activities of daily living were normal with no evidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis. One year after TES, however, lung CT revealed occurrence of another lung metastasis, and molecular-targeting therapy (pazopanib) was initiated.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no reports demonstrating metastasis regression with CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltration after TES. This case demonstrated that preoperative tumor embolization combined with TES using tumor-bearing autograft provided both a local radical cure and systemic antitumor immunological enhancement, although the long-term effect can be limited.

Four-Year Survival of a Patient With Spinal Metastatic Acinic Cell Carcinoma After a Total En Bloc Spondylectomy and Reconstruction With a Frozen Tumor-Bearing Bone Graft

Acinic cell carcinoma metastasizing to the spine is extremely rare. The authors present a case of acinic cell carcinoma of the parotid gland with subsequent lung and spinal metastases, treated with en bloc spondylectomy. A 41-year-old man presented with a left parotid mass. After being diagnosed with acinic cell carcinoma, he underwent a total parotidectomy. Imaging studies revealed a metastatic osteoblastic lesion in the T4 vertebral body and multiple lung metastases. Total en bloc spondylectomy and reconstruction with a frozen tumor-bearing bone graft were performed to treat the T4 metastasis. Lung metastases were treated with periodic radiofrequency ablation. At the 48-month follow-up, there was no local recurrence of the lesions, and the lung metastases were controlled. The bone graft had fused with the adjacent vertebrae, and the patient had full neurological function and normal daily activities. This report indicates satisfactory long-term outcomes of total en bloc spondylectomy and reconstruction with frozen tumor-bearing bone graft in a patient with acinic cell carcinoma with spinal metastasis. It also emphasizes the benefits of radical resection of spinal metastasis even in cases with multiple organ metastases. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(5):e727-e730.].

Growth of epiphysis after epiphyseal-preservation surgery for childhood osteosarcoma around the knee joint

BACKGROUND

Epiphyseal-preservation surgery for osteosarcoma is an alternative method which has been indicated carefully to selected patients. The tumor-devitalised autograft treated with liquid nitrogen procedure is one of the biological reconstruction method to reconstruct the defect after tumor excision. The limb length discrepancy is usually appeared in children with their growth after limb-sparing surgery. This study was aimed to investigated the growth of residual epiphysis following epiphyseal-preservation surgery for childhood osteosarcoma around the knee joint.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 12 patients with osteosarcoma who underwent epiphysis preserving tumor excision (8 in distal femur and 4 in proximal tibia) and reconstructed by using tumor-devitalized autograft treated with liquid nitrogen. The mean patient age was 11 (range, 6 to 14) years. The mean follow-up period were 63 (range, 41 to 90) months. Epiphysis transverse growth rate, epiphysis-width discrepancy (EWD) and collapse of epiphysis were evaluated by using pre- and post-operative whole standing leg radiographs. A retrospective chart review was performed to investigate functional outcome, complications and oncological status.

RESULTS

The mean growth of epiphysis rate was 12.6% (range, 3.3 to 28.0%) of affected side and 12.7% (range, 3.8 to 28.9%) of contralateral side, mean EWD was 0.1 mm (range, - 1.0 to 1.7 mm), mean LLD was + 26.1 mm (range, + 1 to + 48 mm) and two patients with distal femoral reconstruction underwent limb lengthening of tibia. There was no collapse of the residual epiphysis. The mean MSTS score was 27.7 (range, 18 to 30).

CONCLUSIONS

Epiphysis transverse growth was not diminished, and there was absence of epiphyseal collapse even after epiphyseal-preservation surgery in this small series of childhood osteosarcoma around the knee. With careful assessment for epiphyseal tumor involvement, epiphyseal-preservation surgery shall be possible, and could be an alternative method worth considering.

Risk factors for local recurrence after total en bloc spondylectomy for metastatic spinal tumors: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate local recurrence and survival outcomes after frozen autograft total en bloc spondylectomy for metastatic spinal tumors.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from 91 patients with metastatic spinal tumors who underwent frozen autograft total en bloc spondylectomy at our institution between May 2010 and April 2015. We assessed the incidence, primary cancer type, and sites of local recurrence. Risk factors for local recurrence were also examined through the statistical analysis of 17 items, including clinico-pathological characteristics, treatment history, and preoperative or surgical complications. Survival outcomes were evaluated with particular attention paid to the presence of local recurrence.

RESULTS

The median follow-up duration was 27.4 months (range, 4-66 months). Local recurrence was diagnosed in 10 of 91 patients (11.0%). The sites of recurrence were intradural in 4 cases, epidural in 3 cases, in a vertebral body adjacent to the resected vertebral body in 2 cases, and in the paraspinal muscle in 3 cases. None of the patients had recurrence from the liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing autograft. There were no local recurrences of renal cell carcinoma, thyroid cancer, or lung cancer. Multivariate analysis indicated that radiotherapy history was the only risk factor for local recurrence (odds ratio, 6.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-45.62; p = 0.04). The 2-year survival rate was significantly lower for the recurrence group than for the non-recurrence group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A history of radiation was the only risk factor for local recurrence. Patients with recurrence had a significantly worse prognosis than those without recurrence.

Successful treatment of a diffuse type tenosynovial giant cell tumor in the thoracic spine mimicking spinal metastasis by frozen recapping laminoplasty in a patient with thyroid cancer

PURPOSE

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor of the diffuse type (TGCT-D) involving the spine is rare. Its differential diagnosis includes metastatic disease; however, there have been few reports of spinal TGCT-D mimicking spinal metastasis in patients with a history of malignancy.

METHODS

We report on a 35-year-old woman with a history of papillary thyroid cancer who was diagnosed with TGCT-D of the thoracic spine mimicking spinal metastasis. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) revealed a 1.0 × 1.0-cm lytic bone lesion involving the left T7 vertebral lamina, pedicle, and the T6-7 facet joint; the thoracic spine lesion was markedly fluorodeoxyglucose-avid on positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT).

RESULTS

Spinal metastasis was initially suspected given the patient's history of papillary thyroid cancer. Total excision was performed with recapping laminoplasty. The resected lamina was frozen in liquid nitrogen and used as a frozen autograft (frozen recapping laminoplasty) for spinal reconstruction with posterior instrumentation. Histological findings supported a diagnosis of TGCT-D. The patient had no evidence of local recurrence 2 years post-surgery. Bone union was achieved 3 years post-surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

TGCT-D can mimic metastasis in PET/CT and should be included in the differential diagnosis if a lytic lesion affecting the posterior elements of the vertebrae involves the facet joints. CT-guided biopsy is recommended for accurate diagnosis when an occult tumor, such as TGCT, is incidentally detected on PET-CT, even in patients with a history of malignant neoplasm. Frozen recapping laminoplasty is useful for complete resection of a spinal tumor, preventing local recurrence, and preservation of the posterior spinal elements.

A histological examination of spinal reconstruction using a frozen bone autograft

Our aim was to compare the process of bone formation after reconstruction of the vertebral body using a titanium cage with either a liquid nitrogen-treated (frozen) bone autograft or non-treated fresh bone autograft. Twelve canine beagles underwent anterior reconstruction of the 5^th lumbar vertebrae using a titanium cage and bone autograft. Bone formation was compared across four experimental groups: fresh bone autograft groups, with animals sacrificed at either 8 or 16 weeks post-reconstruction, and liquid nitrogen-treated (frozen) bone autograft groups, with animals again sacrificed at either 8 or 16 weeks post-reconstruction. Bone formation was evaluated histologically by calculating the proportion of ‘reaction’ and ‘mature bone’ regions at the ends of the cage, its center, and ventral/dorsal sides. The reaction region contained osteocytes with a nucleus and osteoblasts accumulated on the surface of an osteoid, while a laminar structure was visible for mature bone regions. For fresh bone autografts, the reaction and mature bone regions significantly increased from 8 to 16 weeks post-reconstruction. By comparison, for frozen autografts, the reaction bone region did not significantly increase from 8 to 16 weeks post-reconstruction, while the mature bone region did increase over this time period. The proportion of reaction bone was higher at the ends and dorsal side of the cage at 8 weeks, for both graft types, with greater bone formation at the center of the cage at 16 weeks only for the fresh bone autograft. Therefore, bone formation in the anterior spinal reconstruction site tended to be delayed when using a frozen bone autograft compared to a fresh bone autograft. The bone formation process, however, was similar for both groups, beginning at the ends and dorsal side of the cage adjacent to the surrounding vertebral bone.

Mandibular Reconstruction by Using a Liquid Nitrogen-Treated Autograft in a Dog with an Oral Tumor

A 10 yr old intact female German shepherd dog presented with a large peripheral odontogenic fibroma and malignant melanoma on her lower jaw. The tumor was resected with a unilateral subtotal rostral hemimandibulectomy. After the mandible was removed, it was devitalized intraoperatively by freezing it in liquid nitrogen. It was subsequently reimplanted. New bone tissue formed in the gap between the frozen bone and the host bone. The regenerated bone contained osteocytes, osteoblasts, and blood vessels. The cosmetic appearance of the dog was preserved. The dog had normal mastication. The malignant melanoma recurred rostral of the left canine tooth at 159 days after the reconstruction surgery. A subtotal hemimandibulectomy was consequently performed. This is the first reported case of mandibular reconstruction using a liquid nitrogen-treated autograft in a dog with oral tumors.

Epiphyseal Sparing and Reconstruction by Frozen Bone Autograft after Malignant Bone Tumor Resection in Children

Limb salvage surgery has become the standard treatment for malignant primary bone tumors in the extremities. Limb salvage represents a challenge in skeletally immature patients. Several treatment options are available for limb reconstruction after tumor resection in children. We report our results using the technique of epiphyseal sparing and reconstruction with frozen autograft bone in 18 children. The mean follow-up period for the all patients included in this study is 72 ± 26 m. Eight patients remained disease-free, seven patients lived with no evidence of disease, two were alive but with disease, and one patient died of the disease. Five- and ten-year rates of survival were 94.4%. Graft survival at 5 and 10 years was 94.4%. Functional outcome using the Enneking scale was excellent in 17 patients (94.4%) and poor in one patient (5.5%). Complications include 2 nonunions, 2 fractures, 2 deep infections, 1 soft tissue recurrence, and leg length discrepancy in 7 cases. This technique is a good reconstructive choice in a child with a nonosteolytic primary or secondary bone tumor, responsive to chemotherapy, without involvement of the articular cartilage. It is a straight forward, effective, and biological technique, which affords immediate mobilization of joints and possible cryoimmune effects, with excellent long term functional outcome and less complication.

Successful correction of tibial bone deformity through multiple surgical procedures, liquid nitrogen-pretreated bone tumor autograft, three-dimensional external fixation, and internal fixation in a patient with primary osteosarcoma: a case report

Background

In a previous report, we described a method of reconstruction using tumor-bearing autograft treated by liquid nitrogen for malignant bone tumor. Here we present the first case of bone deformity correction following a tumor-bearing frozen autograft via three-dimensional computerized reconstruction after multiple surgeries.

Case presentation

A 16-year-old female student presented with pain in the left lower leg and was diagnosed with a low-grade central tibial osteosarcoma. Surgical bone reconstruction was performed using a tumor-bearing frozen autograft. Bone union was achieved at 7 months after the first surgical procedure. However, local tumor recurrence and lung metastases occurred 2 years later, at which time a second surgical procedure was performed. Five years later, the patient developed a 19° varus deformity and underwent a third surgical procedure, during which an osteotomy was performed using the Taylor Spatial Frame three-dimensional external fixation technique. A fourth corrective surgical procedure was performed in which internal fixation was achieved with a locking plate. Two years later, and 10 years after the initial diagnosis of tibial osteosarcoma, the bone deformity was completely corrected, and the patient’s limb function was good.

Conclusion

We present the first report in which a bone deformity due to a primary osteosarcoma was corrected using a tumor-bearing frozen autograft, followed by multiple corrective surgical procedures that included osteotomy, three-dimensional external fixation, and internal fixation.

En Bloc Resection and Reconstruction Using a Frozen Tumor-Bearing Bone for Metastases of the Spine and Cranium from Retroperitoneal Paraganglioma

BACKGROUND

Paragangliomas are neuroendocrine tumors that originate from autonomic nervous system-associated paraganglia and are rare tumors accounting for only 0.3% of all neoplasms. Malignant paragangliomas frequently spread to the skeleton. The authors present a case of malignant paraganglioma with bone metastases to the spine and cranium, as well as excellent local control achieved with en bloc tumor resection and reconstruction using frozen tumor-bearing bone for the sites of the metastases.

CASE

The patient was a 61-year-old woman who underwent retroperitoneal paraganglioma resection 12 years previously. Nine years after the primary surgery, she began to experience back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an isolated metastasis in T6, and the following evaluation detected another metastasis in the left temporal bone. We performed curative surgeries for the metastases, including total en bloc spondylectomy of T6, partial craniectomy for the cranial metastasis, and spinal and cranial reconstruction using frozen tumor-bearing bone for the sites of the metastases. At the 24-month follow-up examination, bone fusion was achieved between the frozen bone and the adjacent healthy bone in the spine and cranium. At 36 months postoperatively, an asymptomatic metastatic lesion was found in the pelvis. Nevertheless, no local recurrences at the surgical sites were detected. Her quality of life and performance in activities of daily living were well preserved. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report to present a case of cranioplasty achieved using a liquid nitrogen frozen, tumor-bearing autologous bone flap in a single-stage operation.

The long-term outcome following the use of frozen autograft treated with liquid nitrogen in the management of bone and soft-tissue sarcomas

In 1999, we developed a technique for biological reconstruction after excision of a bone tumour, which involved using autografts of the bone containing the tumour treated with liquid nitrogen. We have previously reported the use of this technique in 28 patients at a mean follow up of 27 months (10 to 54).

In this study, we included 72 patients who underwent reconstruction using this technique. A total of 33 patients died and three were lost to follow-up, at a mean of 23 months (2 to 56) post-operatively, leaving 36 patients available for a assessment at a mean of 101 months 16 to 163) post-operatively. The methods of reconstruction included an osteo-articular graft in 16, an intercalary in 13 and, a composite graft with prosthesis in seven.

Post-operative function was excellent in 26 patients (72.2%), good in seven (19.4%), and fair in three (8.3%) according to the functional evaluation system of Enneking. No recurrent tumour occurred within the grafts. The autografts survived in 29 patients (80.6%), and the rates of survival at five and ten years were 86.1% and 80.6 %, respectively. Seven of 16 osteo-articular grafts (44%) failed because of fracture or infection, but all the composite and intercalary grafts survived.

The long-term outcomes of frozen autografting, particularly using composite and intercalary grafts, are satisfactory and thus represent a good method of treatment for patients with a sarcoma of bone or soft tissue.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:555–61.

A novel method to apply osteogenic potential of adipose derived stem cells in orthopaedic surgery

Background

A number of publications have reported that adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) have the capacity to be induced to differentiate into osteoblasts both in vitro and in vivo. However, it has been difficult to use separate ADSCs for cortical bone regeneration and bone reconstruction so far. Inspired by the research around stromal stem cells and cell sheets, we developed a new method to fabricate ADSCs sheets to accelerate and enhance the bone regeneration and bone reconstruction.

Purpose

To fabricate ADSCs sheets and evaluate their capacity to be induced to differentiate to osteoblasts in vitro.

Methods

Human adipose derived stem cells (hADSCs) were employed in this research. The fabricating medium containing 50 µM ascorbate-2-phosphate was used to enhance the secretion of collagen protein by the ADSCs and thus to make the cell sheets of ADSCs. As the separate ADSCs were divided into osteo-induction group and control group, the ADSCs sheets were also divided into two groups depending on induction by osteogenesis medium or no induction. The osteogenic capacity of each group was evaluated by ALP staining, Alizarin Red staining and ALP activity.

Results

The ADSCs sheets were fabricated after one-week culture in the fabricating medium. The ALP staining of ADSCs sheets showed positive results after 5 days osteo-induction and the Alizarin Red staining of ADSCs sheets showed positive results after 1 week osteo-induction. The ALP activity showed significant differences between these four groups. The ALP activity of ADSCs sheets groups showed higher value than that of separate ADSCs.

Conclusion

The experiments demonstrated that ADSCs sheets have better capacity than separate ADSCs to be induced to differentiate into osteoblasts. This indicates that it is possible to use the ADSCs sheets as a source of mesenchymal stem cells for bone regeneration and bone reconstruction.