Purpose: The optimal reconstructive method after resection of malignant bone tumours of the proximal ulna is unknown.We report the outcome of endoprosthetic replacement in a young patient population.
Methods: This was a retrospective review of four patients[three males and one female; mean age 17.5 (range 11–31)years] who underwent limb salvage with a proximal ulnar endoprosthetic replacement following excision of malignant bone tumour. Mean follow-up was 85 (range 14–194) months.
Results: All patients were alive at final follow-up and reported an improvement in pain. One patient required transhumeral amputation for intralesional excision complicating a local recurrence at one month. Two patients developed fixed flexion deformities of the elbow, one of whom required radial-head excision. Mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS)score and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) were 27(range 25–28) and 81 (73–88), respectively.
Conclusions: Custom-made proximal ulna endoprosthetic replacement following resection of malignant bone tumours in young patients provides a stable reconstruction option with satisfactory function and without apparent compromise in patient survival.