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Chondroma is a benign tumor formation that occurs through the proliferation of cartilaginous tissue. It can be located centrally (enchondroma) or peripherally, often appears between 10-30 years of age, and is commonly discovered incidentally. This case report describes a 46-year-old woman presenting with pain in the left calf and partial functional impotence. The onset of her symptoms was affirmatively marked by a mild skiing-related trauma. Following protocol, X-ray imaging (antero-posterior and lateral views) of the calf was performed, with the only finding being a solitary bony lesion, with internal calcifications, sclerotic margin and radiolucent internal matrix. Facing the uncertainty of diagnosis from a clinical and radiographic standpoint, it was decided to admit the patient for further evaluation and start the standard protocol of imaging investigations - computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and bone scintigraphy - and determine the subsequent therapeutic behavior. Differential diagnosis between enchondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma can be difficult due to their histopathological similarity. The therapy of choice in enchondroma comprises non-surgical treatment (observation) if the lesion remains unaltered in imaging, or curettage/filling with bone substitutes/allografts, but considering the advanced age and interruption of the bone cortex in our case, we opted for curative surgical treatment.

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We explored the most suitable osteosynthesis type for mandibular reconstruction using fibula free flap (FFF) given the lack of robust data available. For this, an anonymous survey was e-mailed to 853 head-and-neck surgeons (France) asking about their practices and criteria guiding their osteosynthesis material and method choices. Questions assessed: (1) the most frequently used osteosynthesis type, (2) the explanatory variables related to surgeon career status/surgical specialty, and (3) justifications for osteosynthesis type (scientific, technical, "misuse"). Multivariate logistic regression was performed to test for associations of explanatory variables with plate type or misuse. Overall, 118 (13.8%) surgeons responded, among which flexible non-locking osteosynthesis was preferred (59%). Career status and surgical specialty were significantly associated with material choice. University professors/senior lecturers (OR 5.96 vs academic clinical associates; p = 0.02), but not ear-nose-throat/reconstructive plastic surgeons (OR 0.22 vs maxillofacial surgeons; p = 0.04), were more likely to opt for rigid locking osteosynthesis. Private practitioners preferred flexible non-locking osteosynthesis (OR = 5.03; p = 0.04). Only 18% of surgeons scientifically justified their choices. We considered misuse among 65% of surgeons and this was significantly associated with irregular practice of FFF surgery (OR 2.28 vs > 10 surgeries/year; p = 0.04). Overall, >50% of surgeons mainly rely on habits without scientific arguments assisting in decision-making.

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BACKGROUND: The microvascular free fibula (MFF) flap is a reliable treatment modality for mandibular reconstruction and is suitable for dental implant placement after oncologic surgery. The most common issue with the MFF flap is its limited bone height, which typically results in excessive interarch space and complicates prosthodontic therapy. Overcoming the physical limitations from tumor excision and reducing the treatment time for prosthodontic rehabilitation to improve quality of life are critical clinical challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old male with lower left gum and bilateral buccal cancer received a single-layer microvascular MFF flap to reconstruct a mandibular defect post-tumor excision. He underwent a bilateral modiolus Z-plasty combined with a skin flap debulking procedure to relieve oral contracture, achieving adequate mouth opening for prosthodontic rehabilitation. Scar tissue bands on the bilateral cheeks significantly affected retention and stability, hampering dental impression performance. The patient sought prosthodontic rehabilitation to enhance his chewing function and quality of life promptly. Prosthodontic rehabilitation with all-on-4 implant therapy, utilizing computer-aided design and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM), was completed within one month. CONCLUSION: This case utilized the all-on-4 implant system to address the insufficient fibular height for conventional dental implant placements. Dental CAD/CAM was employed to mill custom prosthetic abutments and a large titanium framework for the implant bar overdenture, compensating for the excessive interarch space between the grafted fibula and maxilla. This treatment approach successfully shortened the prosthodontic rehabilitation time and overcame anatomical limitations.

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OBJECTIVES: This study analyzed the human maxilla to support the development of mean-value-based cutting guide systems for maxillary reconstruction, bridging the gap between freehand techniques and virtual surgical planning (VSP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study used routine CT scans. DICOM data enabled 3D modelling and the maxilla was divided into four regions: paranasal (R1), facial maxillary sinus wall (R2), zygomatic bone (R3) and alveolar process (R4). Surface comparisons were made with a reference skull. Statistical analyses assessed anatomical variations, focusing on mean distance (Dmean), area of valid distance (AVD), integrated distance (ID) and integrated absolute distance (IAD). The study addressed hemimaxillectomy defects for two-segmental reconstructions using seven defined bilateral points to determine segmental distances and angles. RESULTS: Data from 50 patients showed R2 as the most homogeneous and R4 as the most heterogeneous region. Significant age and gender differences were found in R3 and R4, with younger patients and females having more outliers. Cluster analysis indicated that males had R1 and R3 positioned anterior to the reference skull. The mean angle for segmental reconstruction was 131.24° ± 1.29°, with anterior segment length of 30.71 ± 0.57 mm and posterior length of 28.15 ± 0.86 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Anatomical analysis supported the development of semistandardized segmental resection approaches. Although gender and anatomical differences were noted, they did not significantly impact the feasibility of mean-value-based cutting-guide systems. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides essential anatomical data for creating cost-effective and efficient reconstruction options for maxillary defects, potentially improving surgical outcomes and expanding reconstructive possibilities beyond current techniques.

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Background: Involvement of the distal fibula by alveolar soft-part sarcoma is rare. Extensive resection or amputation may be needed; however, distal fibula resection can disrupt foot and ankle biomechanics, leading to ankle joint instability. Reports on joint preservation for maintaining optimal ankle joint function are scarce. Computer-aided design and individualized three-dimensional (3D)-printed uncemented implants represent an evolving solution for reconstructing the distal fibula. Case presentation: A 34-year-old woman was diagnosed with alveolar soft-part sarcoma in the right lower leg involving the cortical bone of the fibula. After anlotinib treatment, the tumor size decreased, and the tumor response rate was a partial response (PR); however, the patient continued to experience adverse reactions. With multiple disciplinary team discussions, surgical resection was deemed appropriate. Due to the extensive defect and ankle joint instability after resection, a custom-made 3D-printed prosthesis was designed and fabricated to reconstruct the defect, preserving the lateral malleolus. During the follow-up, the patient achieved favorable ankle function, and no prosthesis-related complications were observed. Conclusion: 3D-printed personalized uncemented implants constitute a novel approach and method for addressing the reconstruction issues of the distal fibula and ankle joint. Through the personalized design of 3D-printed prostheses, the lateral malleolus can be preserved, ensuring the normal anatomical structure of the ankle joint. They achieve a well-integrated interface between the prosthesis and bone, ensuring satisfactory postoperative function. Additionally, they offer valuable insights for reconstructing distal bone defects near joints in the extremities. However, confirming these findings requires extensive cohort studies.

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Introduction: Despite recent advances, management of distal tibial fractures is challenging, with high rate of complications. Fibula pro tibia plating technique fixes fibula and tibia together, via laterally placed fibular plate without disturbing the tibial soft tissue sleeve. We contemplated this pilot study to assess effectiveness of fibula pro tibia plating in management of distal tibia fibula fractures. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients with distal tibia fibula fractures with fracture line extending within 5cm from tibial plafond were managed with fibula pro tibia plating, with or without minimal articular fixation. Outcome evaluation was done by union, union time, alignment and functional outcome as assessed by AOFAS score. Results: Mean age in the series was 39.4 years with male to female ratio of 3:2. Mean duration of surgery, blood loss and C arm exposure were 79 minutes (range 52 to 98min), 80ml (range 62 to 102ml) and 48 shoots (range 36 to 81 shoots), respectively. All fractures united in mean union time of 10.2 weeks (range 9 to 14 weeks) with acceptable alignment in all the patients except one. Mean AOFAS score was 86.3 (range 70 to 93) with 29 patients having good to excellent outcome. One patient had varus malunion and in one case infection was seen. Conclusion: Fibula pro tibia plating can be successfully used to manage complex distal tibia fractures which leaves the soft tissue and periosteal sleeve undisturbed, thus avoiding wound related problems and leading to early union.

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Introduction: There is no standard protocol for managing non-union of diaphyseal humerus bone, with several authors reporting their results using various techniques and methods for its management. No meta-analysis has reported the results of managing these cases with non-vascularized fibula grafting as an adjuvant for osteosynthesis. Materials and methods: This meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled data for calculating the union rates in diaphyseal humerus fractures managed with non-vascularized fibula grafting. Risk of Bias was computed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool. Results: A total of 5 studies, comprising 102 patients, were included. The pooled estimate demonstrated that 94 patients achieved bone union with intramedullary fibular strut grafting. The pooled union rate (per 100 events) was 90.59 (95 % CI, 82.86-95.04, I2 = 0). The present meta-analysis also showed a significant improvement in DASH scores following the use of a non-vascularized fibula graft with a common effects model (SMD = 4.08; 95%CI: 3.44; 4.72; p < 0.01 I2 = 19 %, p-value for Q test = 0.29). Conclusion: Non-vascularized fibula grafting is an excellent adjuvant for the internal fixation of non-union diaphyseal humerus fractures. Although there is limited literature, further studies should highlight and assess the treatment of these uncommon but disabling conditions.

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Background The flexor hallucis longus (FHL) muscle is crucial in fine motor control of the great toe but the muscle is often sacrificed in free fibula flap (FFF) reconstruction. The aim of this study was to compare great toe movement between complete and partial FHL resection during FFF harvest to see if FHL can be left behind (without undergoing fibrosis) in situ when bulk is not required at the recipient site. Methods A prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was performed including patients undergoing FFF harvest over a 2-year period. Movement of great toe interphalangeal joint was recorded of operated and unoperated legs in patients undergoing partial and complete FHL harvest and data analyzed. Results There was a statistically significant ( p < 0.05) difference between the two groups of patients. Conclusion FHL can be safely left in situ in patients not requiring bulk at the recipient site as blood supply, nerve supply, and muscle function are not compromised in partial FHL harvest. Further image-based and dye-based studies are warranted.

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Large posterolateral tibial fragments, known as Volkmann fractures, are common in ankle fracture-dislocations and typically require open reduction and fixation with interfragmentary screws and often buttress plates using a prone posterolateral approach. In this setting, fibula plating often necessitates dissection of the lateral window between the peroneal tendons and the skin, increasing wound-related complications. In recent years, intramedullary nailing of fibula fractures has gained popularity as a minimally invasive technique that allows load-sharing stabilization. However, this procedure has traditionally been performed in the supine position, which can pose challenges if a Volkmann-type fracture is present, requiring repositioning and losing access to the fibula through the posterolateral approach. Our objective is to describe a technique for fixing ankle fracture-dislocations with large posterolateral fragments using tibial buttress plates and fibula nails through a prone posterolateral approach without dissecting the lateral window. Additionally, we will present a case series with preliminary results.

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BACKGROUND: Mandibular reconstruction has historically been challenging due to the complex, highly functional, and esthetic nature of the anatomy. The most common etiologies of these defects requiring resection include trauma, benign tumors, and malignant pathology. Mandibular defects have been treated with little consideration for neural reconstruction, leaving patient's orally incompetent with associated social stigma. Although recent advances in reconstructive techniques improve oral rehabilitation, immediate inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) reconstruction has not been widely adapted. OBJECTIVE: Here-in we seek to discuss the innovations of neural reconstruction of large segment mandibular defects and associated IAN defects and present an example case performed at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD). METHODS: Pertinent literature discussing maxillofacial reconstruction and nerve repair using autogenous nerve harvest and allograft was queried from available online resources. RESULTS: Six patients have received immediate reconstruction of the IAN using processed nerve allograft over the past three years. All obtained sensation to S3 within six months of surgery. CONCLUSION: IAN repair using nerve allografts in conjunction with free flap reconstruction for large mandibular defects is a viable treatment and should be the new paradigm in maxillofacial reconstruction as it provides substantial quantifiable and qualitative improvements in social, functional, and esthetic outcomes of care.

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BACKGROUND: Segmental mandibulectomy and reconstruction of resulting defect can be performed via intraoral approach (IOA) or extraoral approach (EOA). Both approaches have advantages, disadvantages, indications, and contraindications to consider during their selection. OBJECTIVE: To compare IOA vs EOA of segmental mandibulectomy and microvascular reconstruction with fibula free flap (FFF). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in which 51 patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy and microvascular reconstruction with FFF from 2020 to 2024 were included, especially 17 patients by IOA and 34 patients by EOA, representing both groups of this study. Clinical characteristics, surgery parameters, and patients' prognosis were evaluated. Patients' satisfaction and Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS59) were assessed during follow-up. RESULTS: Ameloblastoma was the most frequent diagnosis (52.9% managed by IOA vs 70.6% by EOA); FFF was frequently positioned as double barrel (94.1% managed by IOA vs 88.2% by EOA). Compared with EOA group, IOA group had less intraoperative blood loss (mean difference [MD] = -112.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -178.9 to -45.5, p = 0.001), higher satisfaction score (MD = 1.3, 95% CI: 0.9 to 1.7, p ˂ 0.001), and lower DAS59 score (MD = -0.5, 95% CI: -0.7 to -0.2, p ˂ 0.001). CONCLUSION: Both IOA and EOA were found safe and feasible, presenting similar perioperative features and postoperative outcomes. Patients managed with IOA were more satisfied with aesthetic outcomes than patients managed with EOA. In the absence of simultaneous immediate implant during mandibular FFF reconstruction, after stability of FFF on the defect site, patients should always be referred to an implantologist and/or prosthodontist for teeth restoration to improve functional and aesthetic outcomes.

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Background: Biologic graft infection (BGI) is one of the main complications in graft reconstructions. However, very little evidence exists regarding the epidemiology of BGI, as most of the data come from sparse reports. Moreover, most of the series did not detail the treatment and outcome of graft infections. The aim of this systematic review of the literature is to provide a comprehensive data collection on BGI after oncologic resections. Methods: Three different databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant articles, and further references were obtained by cross-referencing. Results: 139 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 9824 grafts were retrieved. Among these, 684 (6.9%) were in the humerus, 365 (3.7%) in the pelvis, 2041 (20.7%) in the femur and 1660 (16.8%) in the tibia. Most grafts were osteoarticular (2481, 26.7%) and intercalary 2112 (22.7%) allografts. In 461 (5.0%), vascularized fibula grafts (VFGs) were used in combination with recycled autografts. Recycled grafts were reported in 1573 (16.9%) of the cases, and allograft-prosthetic composites in 1673 (18.0%). The pelvis and the tibia had the highest incidence of BGI (20.4% and 11.0%, respectively). The most reported first treatment was debridement and implant retention (DAIR) in 187 (42.8%) cases and two-stage revision with graft removal in 152 (34.8%). Very little data are reported on the final outcome specified by site or type of graft. Conclusions: This systematic review of the literature confirms a high incidence of infections in biologic reconstructions after resections of primary bone tumors. Despite DAIR being a viable attempt, in most cases, a two-stage approach with graft removal and reconstruction with endoprosthesis presented the highest chance to overcome infection, guaranteeing a reconstruction. We emphasize the need for future multicentric studies to focus on the management of infections after biological reconstructions in bone sarcomas.

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Distal humerus intra-articular comminuted open fracture is a challenging injury, with nonunion, infection and stiffness considered as major concerns. We report a 58-year-old woman who was admitted to the emergency department from a car accident, sustaining an open wound with severe comminution of distal humerus and complete articular fracture, classified as AO/OTA 13C2 and Gustillo Anderson type IIIA. Debridement and external fixation was done first, followed by open reduction and internal fixation with fibular strut allograft. The patient showed excellent results in radiological and functional outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

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Management of the nonunited or painful ankle arthrodesis remains a difficult challenge. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the clinical outcomes and complications of conversion of an ankle fusion to a total ankle replacement (TAR). The PRISMA statement guidelines were followed. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Science Direct and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trails (CENTRAL) from their inception up to October 10th, 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal tool and the Methodological Index for NonRandomized Studies (MINORS). Seven studies with 220 patients (223 ankles) with a mean follow-up of 64.9 months were included. Takedown of an ankle fusion and conversion to a TAR led to a significant improvement in all functional and clinical scores and with an acceptable range of motion. Most common complications were malleolar fractures (12.8%) and arthrofibrosis (5.6%). The revision rate was 8% and 4 cases resulted in a below-knee amputation. Cases with an insufficient fibula had a good outcome when a fibular reconstruction was performed. In conclusion, takedown of an ankle fusion and conversion to a TAR has satisfactory clinical outcomes and with a limited number of complications. Future well-designed studies are needed to validate the results of the present study.

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Ankle fractures represent up to 9% of all fractures, with an increased incidence in the elderly population. Among these fractures, isolated fractures of the lateral malleolus are the most common, representing 65-70% of all cases. The therapeutic decision-making primarily relies on the stability of the ankle ring, considering it stable if affected at one point and unstable if two or more points are affected. Surgical treatment focuses on restoring the length of the fibula, joint reconstruction, stabilising the syndesmosis, and providing a stable fixation. It is crucial to rule out associated injuries that may influence therapeutic management. This article reviews the evaluation and management of lateral malleolus fractures, proposes a decision-making algorithm, and examines several fibular fixation options.

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Hallux interphalangeal joint (IPJ) flexion contracture is an uncommon deformity with various underlying causes, including trauma, neurological disorders, and connective tissue pathologies. We present a unique case of a 10-year-old female patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and a history of fibula transposition surgery, resulting in a hallux IPJ flexion contracture. We believe that the loss of the proximal fibular attachment of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) following fibula harvesting resulted in EHL weakness and unopposed flexor hallucis longus (FHL) pull that eventually led to the contracture. The patient underwent various diagnostic assessments, ruling out other potential causes of the deformity. This case emphasizes the importance of considering previous surgical interventions when encountering flexion contractures of the toes.

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INTRODUCTION: Cervical spine defects result in spinal instability, putting the spinal cord and vertebral arteries at risk of damage and possibly devastating neurological injuries. The fibula free flap can span the spinal defects for stability. There is a paucity of literature on this technique. METHOD: Multi-institutional retrospective case series reviewing patients who underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Patient demographic information, comorbidities, characteristics of cervical spine defects, and free flap complications were collected. RESULTS: A total of 1187 fibula free flaps across 10 different institutions were reviewed. Thirteen patients (1.09%) underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Average age was 52.3 years old with an age range of 12-79 years. There were six males (46.1%) and seven females (53.8%). The most common defect etiology was infection (n = 6, 46.1%). Most commonly involved cervical spine level of the defect was C5 (n = 10) followed by C6 (n = 9) and C4 (n = 8). The majority of reconstructed defects spanned three or more cervical levels, (n = 9, 69.2%). Facial artery was the most common arterial anastomosis (n = 8). Eight patients (61.5%) required a tracheostomy during their postoperative course. None of the patients had symptomatic or radiographic nonunion. CONCLUSION: This case series demonstrates that a vascularized fibula flap is a potential reconstructive option for cervical spine defects, especially in defects greater than three cervical levels, in the setting of infection, and previously radiated patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4 Laryngoscope, 2024.