Clinical and functional outcomes of reconstruction following en bloc resection for the Campanacci grade III distal ulnar giant cell tumors

Abstract

Background: Wide resection of the tumor is essential for the treatment of Campanacci grade III giant cell tumor of the distal ulna but radioulnar convergence and dorsal displacement of the ulnar stump are known complications. Various reconstructive options to reduce these complications have been described in the literature. Methods: Seven patients with Campanacci grade III giant cell tumor distal end of the ulna were treated at our institute by extra-periosteal wide local excision of the tumor followed by reconstruction of the distal radioulnar joint by fixation of tricortical iliac crest graft to the distal end radius using two cancellous screws and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tenodesis for stabilizing the residual ulnar stump. All patients were followed up for an average period of 3.5 years (32–48 months) at regular intervals. Functional outcome and complications if any, were recorded at every follow-up. Results: At final follow-up, the mean range of motion of wrist with 42.1° ± 5.9° of flexion, 72.9° ± 6.4° of extension, 82.1° ± 8.1° of supination and 85.0° ± 5.8° of pronation was achieved. The mean visual analog scale score at the final follow-up was 0.9 ± 0.9. The mean modified Mayo wrist score was 71.4 ± 6.4 with a mean modified Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score of 25.9 ± 0.8 and a mean Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score of 17.9 ± 1.6 at the final follow-up. The average time for the radiological union of iliac crest graft with the distal end radius was 13.3 weeks. None of the patient reported any complication or recurrence. Conclusion: The reconstruction of distal radioulnar joint by fixation of tricortical iliac crest graft with distal end radius and stabilization of ulnar stump by extensor capi ulnaris tenodesis after the wide resection of distal ulna giant cell tumor is recommended for good to excellent functional outcomes.