Tumors of the Acromion Process—A Pictorial Review

Introduction Acromion is essential for stabilizing the shoulder complex. Tumors of the acromion are rare. We report the largest series of acromion tumor and tumor-like lesion. Materials and Methods A retrospective review of the oncology and radiology database within our tertiary center for orthopaedic oncology was performed to identify all tumors of the acromion over the past 30 years and imaging was reviewed. Results We identified a total of 31 lesions arising in the acromion and chondrosarcoma was the commonest. Conclusion One needs to be aware of tumor and tumor-like lesions of acromion.

The Use of Mobile Applications for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Tumors in Orthopaedic Oncology – a Systematic Review

The use of smartphone apps is an essential part of everyday life. Mobile applications offer enormous opportunities for dealing with challenges in public health, and their number increases every day. This paper aims to review the existing literature on mobile applications in orthopaedic oncology and to summarize the current mobile applications for musculoskeletal tumors. A systematic literature review was conducted regarding articles on mobile applications in orthopaedic and trauma surgery. The focus was on identifying mobile applications that can be used in the treatment of patients with musculoskeletal tumors. Two reviewers independently assessed study eligibility, extracted data, and appraised methodological quality. In addition, the Apple App Store and Google Play Store were searched for suitable mobile applications. Ninety-one articles describing a mobile application in orthopaedic and trauma surgery were identified. Three articles focused on a mobile application for musculoskeletal tumors. Additionally, seven mobile applications were available in the App/Play Stores dealing with bone or soft tissue tumors in orthopaedic oncology without corresponding scientific articles. Increasing numbers of mobile applications are being developed in orthopaedic and trauma surgery. Currently, only three scientific articles on mobile applications in orthopaedic oncology are present, yet several more applications are available without scientific medical evaluation. Since mobile applications can facilitate the everyday life of orthopaedic and trauma surgeons, it is worthwhile to be aware of new developments in this field. A regular scientific evaluation of the subject is important in order to classify the significance of these applications.

Computer Assisted Surgery and 3D Printing in Orthopaedic Oncology: A Lesson Learned by Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery

Primary bone sarcomas are rare tumors and surgical resection in combination with chemo and radiation therapy is the mainstay of treatment. Some specific anatomical sites still represent a reconstructive challenge due to their complex three-dimensional anatomy. In recent years, patient specific instruments along with 3D printing technology has come to represent innovative techniques in orthopaedic oncology. We retrospectively reviewed 23 patients affected by primary bone sarcoma treated with patient-specific instruments and 3D printing custom made prostheses. At follow up after approximately two years, the infection rate was 26%, mechanical complication rate 13%, and local recurrence rate 13% (with a five-years implant survival rate of 74%). Based on our experience, patient-specific instruments and 3D custom-made prostheses represents a reliable and safe technique for improving the accuracy of resection of primary bone tumour, with a particular use in pelvic surgery ameliorating functional results.

Custom-made 3D-printed prosthesis and free vascularised fibula for humeral reconstruction after osteosarcoma resection in a 13-year-old patient

Surgical reconstruction after humeral resection represents a challenging issue in orthopaedic oncology. Particularly in paediatric patients, the main concerns are maintaining limb function and reconstruction longevity. We describe a novel strategy of humeral reconstruction based on the use of a three-dimensional-printed custom-made prosthesis in a 13-year-old patient diagnosed with osteosarcoma. The implant was specifically designed to sustain the native head, which was spared, as it was not involved by the neoplastic tissue. The mechanical support the prosthesis provided was associated with the biological stimulus of a free vascularised fibular graft to obtain an anatomic, functional and stable construct. This solution has had good longevity, and after 3 years of follow-up, the patient still shows excellent limb function and personal satisfaction.