Ipsilateral vascularised fibular transport for massive defects of the tibia

Abstract

The ipsilateral and contralateral fibulae have been used as a vascularised bone graft for loss of tibial bone usually by methods which have involved specialised microvascular techniques to preserve or re-establish the blood supply. We have developed a method of tibialisation of the fibula using the Ilizarov fixator system, ipsilateral vascularised fibular transport (IVFT), and have used it in five patients with massive loss of tibial bone after treatment of an open fracture, infected nonunion or chronic osteomyelitis. All had successful transport, proximal and distal union, and hypertrophy of the graft without fracture. One developed a squamous-cell carcinoma which ultimately required amputation of the limb. The advantage of IVFT is that the fibular segment retains its vascularity without the need for microvascular dissection or anastomoses. Superiosteal formation of new bone occurs if the tibial periosteal bed is retained. Other procedures such as corticotomy and lengthening can be carried out concurrently.