Carbon fiber with reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) plating and nailing for intercalary resection with tibial allograft reconstruction in two oncologic patients

Abstract

Introduction: Carbon fiber with reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) implants have been utilized and researched in orthopedic trauma; however, CFR-PEEK implants may also have potential in orthopedic oncology. Therefore, the purpose of this case series was to report post-operative outcomes and radiographic healing of two patients who received CFR-PEEK plating and nailing for intercalary tumor resection with tibial allograft. Methodology: Two patients who underwent CFR-PEEK plating and nailing for intercalary resection with tibial allograft reconstruction were identified. Post-operative encounters were evaluated for any complications, reoperations, and progress of radiographic healing. Results: The first patient was diagnosis with adamantinoma and ultimately had a complication-free recovery throughout 2.5-year follow-up. The second patient presented with a recurrent proximal tibia osteosarcoma after tibial curettage 14 years prior, and has had a complication-free recovery throughout 1-year follow-up. The radiographic time to union was determined to be six months for both patients and was confirmed with clinical examination. Conclusion: Both patients who received CFR-PEEK plating and nailing for intercalary resection with tibial allograft had a successful surgical recovery with no post-operative complications. CFR-PEEK implants may be safe and effective for intercalary resection with tibial allograft, however future larger comparative studies are needed. Level of evidence: IV.

Keywords

• CFR-PEEK
• Carbon fiber
• Oncology
• Intercalary resection
• Tibial allograft