CALCANEAL RECONSTRUCTION WITH A LARGE BONY DEFECT WITH THE AID OF BIOACTIVE GLASS – CASE STUDY

Abstract

Bone defect reconstruction is a critical component of orthopedic surgery, aiming to restore bones' structural integrity and functionality after injury. Recent developments in biomedical technology have brought forward several advancements in this field, particularly in the development and application of bone graft substitutes. These materials are engineered to mimic the biological and mechanical properties of the bone, thereby facilitating new bone growth and integration without the limitations and morbidity associated with traditional bone grafts. Bioactive glass is an example of such innovation in bone graft substitutes. Composed primarily of silicon dioxide, along with calcium oxide and phosphate, it is designed to undergo a chain of reactions to form a layer of hydroxyapatite that is chemically and structurally similar to human bone. Bioactive glass (BAG) has already found its place in maxilla-facial and spine surgery. However, it is surprising that limited data exist on the use of BAG in trauma patients. We present a case of a 42-year-old male who arrived at the emergency department following a high-energy trauma to the calcaneus after a fall from 4-5 meters onto his left foot. CT imaging revealed a bone deficit in the affected calcaneus due to the impact trauma. The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with bioactive glass (BAG), which was used as an alternative to traditional bone grafting.

Keywords

• bone grafts and substitutes
• bioglass
• calcaneus fracture