Bone defect reconstruction in children using the induced membrane technique: a series of 14 cases.

INTRODUCTION: In pediatrics, Masquelet's induced membrane reconstructive technique has mainly been used in the context of cancer surgery reconstruction or congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia. This retrospective study consisted of a series of pediatric patients where bone defects were reconstructed with this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2006 and 2011, 14 children underwent bone reconstruction using this technique in the context of trauma, tumor resection or congenital pseudarthrosis. The mean age was 10.6years (range: 12 to 17years) at the time of reconstruction. The length of the defect to be reconstructed relative to the length of the bone (index of reconstruction, expressed as a percentage) and bone healing was evaluated on standard radiographs. Complications were recorded.

RESULTS: The mean index of reconstruction was 32.8% (range: 13.9 to 51%). The mean follow-up was 30months (range: 1 to 63). Bone union was achieved in 9.5months (range: 2 to 25). Complications mainly consisted of non-union in 35% of cases, which consolidated after grafting and rigid fixation. Two cases of wound dehiscence were noted. Massive graft resorption occurred in a single case.

DISCUSSION: A technical error was identified in each non-union case (insufficient cement overlap of the bone ends or fixation not stiff enough). These long defects required a large volume of autograft, which constitutes the limiting factor especially in very young children. We used allograft bone chips or a tibial bone strut to increase the graft volume in the largest reconstructions. In this pediatric-only series, an average of one-third of the bone length was successfully reconstructed. Although the technique appears simple, it must be performed rigorously to ensure the cement sufficiently overlaps the bone ends and the defect is properly stabilized to prevent non-union, which is the main complication.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV (retrospective study).