Abstract
Introduction. Free vascularized fibular grafts have been widely used for the reconstruction of long bone defects. However, the use of a vascularized tibial graft is precluded by its weight-bearing function and unacceptable donor site morbidity. Case presentation. We present a rare case of using a vascularized tibia-fibular composite graft taken from a 6-year-old Chinese boy's ipsilateral lower leg to reconstruct a large bony defect of his traumatic femur. Hypertrophy of the tibial graft, good remodeling of the femoral shaft, and atrophy of the unloaded fibular graft were noted at the 10-year follow up. He was able to participate in outdoor activities such as basketball while wearing his prosthesis. Conclusions: The 10-year follow up demonstrates the feasibility of this salvage procedure for a floating knee injury with neurovascular compromise.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 136 |
Journal | Journal of Medical Case Reports |
Volume | 7 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Pediatrics
- Traumatic bony defect
- Vascularized tibia-fibular graft