Combined use of Ilizarov non-free bone plasty and masquelet technique in patients with acquired bone defects and pseudarthrosis

Introduction The Masquelet induced membrane technique is effective in the management of acquired heterogeneous long bone defects and pseudarthrosis. The combination of the Masquelet technology and Ilizarov non-free bone grafting seems promising and reduces the risks of recurrence at long-term in patients with congenital pseudarthrosis. Purpose Presentation of new technological solutions that allow combining the advantages of the Ilizarov bone transport and Masquelet bone grafting in patients with acquired bone defects. Materials and methods Retrospective assessment of the results of bone reconstruction in 10 patients who were treated by a combination of Ilizarov and Masquelet bone grafting technologies to repair long bone defects after failures of previous treatment. Fragments of the biomembrane formed around the cement spacer temporarily replacing the tibial gap after resection bone defect or pseudarthrosis were examined in all patients. The studies were carried out using a Reichard sledge microtome, an AxioScope stereomicroscope and an AxioCam ICc 5 digital camera, a JSM-840 scanning electron microscope and an INCA-200 Energy X-ray electron probe microanalyzer. Results and discussion The combined Masquelet technique and Ilizarov non-free bone plasty provide the conditions that are favorable for reparative processes of the transported fragments. After removal of the spacer, there is a tunnel formed in the interfragmental gap, the walls of which are made of the induced membrane. Bone transport is carried out without technical problems through the compromised tissues which are debrided at the time of distraction initiation, outside the scars. At the same time, there are low risks of inflammation around the transosseous elements; there is no danger of cutting and perforation of soft tissues by transported fragments. Conclusions Complete organotypic rearrangement of the distraction regenerate with the use of Ilizarov non-free bone plasty and the Masquelet technique excludes the possibility of deformities or fractures at the level of newly formed bone areas. Active distraction histogenesis ensures the closure of soft tissue defects without additional reconstructive plastic interventions. The revealed dependence of the induced membrane blood supply on the method of treatment previously used might be a criterion for predicting the treatment outcome in patients with acquired bone defects and pseudarthrosis.