Resection hip arthroplasty for malignant pelvic tumor: Outcome in 5 patients followed more than 2 years

Abstract

We describe the technique and outcome of resection hip arthroplasty with external fixator for malignant pelvic tumors involving the innominate bone. We used the procedure in 5 patients, all followed for more than 2 years. 4 of the patients are alive and 1 died of pulmonary metastasis. None of the patients experienced local tumor recurrence or infection. Lower limb function in 3 of the 5 patients was more than 70% with Enneking's criteria (Enneking et al. 1993). These 3 patients could walk without support and passively flex the hip up to 90 degrees. This resection hip arthroplasty allows early weight bearing with hip motion. We believe it is an excellent alternative to other procedures, such as endoprosthetic replacement, reconstruction with allograft or arthrodesis.