Factors affecting successful prosthetic use after hemipelvectomy and hip disarticulation amputations: Five-year experience from a tertiary prosthetic rehabilitation center.

BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation after hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy amputations can be challenging, and many opt to forego prosthetic limb use. There is limited evidence on characteristics that result in successful prosthetic use; therefore, our study aimed to identify these to help guide patient expectations. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on patients seen at a UK tertiary prosthetic center in the past 5 years with hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy amputations. Details and etiology of amputation, length between assessment and delivery of prosthesis, goals, reasons for abandonment, and outcomes were recorded. Successful prosthetic use was defined as the use of a prosthesis at least 3 times a week. Characteristics were compared using odds ratios and Fisher exact test. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patient notes were analyzed: 42% female, 58% male, and age range 14-90. Thirty percent had a hemipelvectomy, and 70% had a hip disarticulation. Neoplasia accounted for 78% of etiologies followed by trauma 15% and infected endoprosthesis 7%. Sixty-seven percent trialed a walking prosthesis; 33% of these stopped eventually. There were no statistically significant findings of factors increasing odds of successful prosthetic use. However, age significantly increased the odds of being given a trial of a prosthesis. CONCLUSION: Although younger patients are more likely to be given the opportunity to trial a walking prosthesis, age does not seem to affect the overall outcome alone. In cases of neoplasia, there is often a delayed start to rehabilitation and prosthetic use, which may affect eventual success. Further studies are required to define the optimum characteristics for successful prosthetic use at higher amputation levels.

The importance of the rehabilitation program following an internal hemipelvectomy and reconstruction with limb salvage - gait analysis and outcomes: a case study.

Background: Chondrosarcomas account for approximately 20% of bone sarcomas, with the most common site being the lower limb. Hemipelvectomies that involve hindquarter amputation have previously been the treatment of choice for pelvic tumors. However, with advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, imaging and surgical techniques more patients are now being treated with limb salvage surgery. The rehabilitation outcomes following an internal hemipelvectomy have not been well identified and there is currently little, if any, gait analysis data on rehabilitation following hemipelvectomy in limb salvage patients. Case description: A 53-year-old male underwent an internal hemipelvectomy with limb salvage followed by a 2-year rehabilitation program. The aim of this case study is to describe temporal and spatial parameters, metabolic energy expenditure and joint kinematics of a patient with an internal hemipelvectomy who underwent a wide excision of a chondrosarcoma followed by intensive rehabilitation. Outcomes: Walking speed (1.6 m/s), stride length (1.7 m), stride width (0.13 m) and good symmetry in step length (right 0.85 m and left data 0.80 m) and stance time (right 62% and left 59%) indicate a walking pattern similar to the asymptomatic able bodied. Oxygen consumption was 16.6 ml/kg/min and oxygen cost 0.17 ml/kg/m. Discussion: Following the intensive 2-year rehabilitation program this patient's gait pattern was similar to a control group with no statistically significant difference in the movement of the left and right knee and ankle joints. Some differences were identified against the control group in respect of the movement of the pelvis and hips, but this is partly to be expected. This case study highlights the functional outcomes that can be achieved following limb salvage surgery with intensive rehabilitation and a high level of motivation from the individual. Implications for rehabilitation Advancements in chemotherapy, imaging and surgical techniques have allowed more patients to be treated with internal hemipelvectomy. The rehabilitation outcomes following an internal hemipelvectomy have not been well identified and there is little gait analysis data. This case study highlights the functional outcomes that can be achieved following limb salvage surgery with intensive rehabilitation and motivation from the individual. Rehabilitation following internal hemipelvectomy should include goal setting, lymphoedema management, physiotherapy and an exercise program.

Colgajo anterior de muslo en hemipelvectomía externa, reporte de caso / Anterior fl ap on external hemipelvectomy, case report

Introducción. La hemipelvectomía es un procedimiento agresivo para el tratamiento de tumores localmente avanzados. Requiere la conformación de un equipo interdisciplinario. Las opciones de cobertura dependen de la topografía de la lesión, existiendo 3 tipos de colgajo: posterior, anterior, y libre. Material y método. Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente que presentó una ulcera de Marjolin a nivel de región trocantérica y glútea derecha, en el que se realizó una hemipelvectomía externa extendida, asociada a un colgajo anterior de muslo. Se trató de un colgajo músculo-cutáneo pediculado a los vasos femorales superfi ciales y profundos, compuesto por todos los planos de la logia anterior de muslo. Resultados. En este paciente se alcanzó una adecuada cobertura del defecto, que permitió su pronta rehabilitación. Discusión. Este colgajo es descripto como un colgajo pediculado en los vasos femorales superfi ciales. Creemos que si bien presenta vascularización por estos vasos, su mayor vascularización está dada por la arteria femoral profunda y su rama lateral circunfl eja. Este colgajo permite una adecuada cobertura en lesiones posteriores, con buena calidad de cobertura y menor número de complicaciones que el colgajo posterior. Conclusión. La hemipelevectomía externa es un tratamiento agresivo realizado para lesiones localmente avanzadas, con alta morbimortalidad, y que debe ser realizada por un equipo interdisciplinario. En cuanto a la cobertura, el colgajo anterior presenta buenos resultados dada su buena vascularización.

Background. Hemipelvectomy is an aggressive procedure for the treatment of locally advanced tumors. It requires the formation of an interdisciplinary team. The coverage options depend on the topography of the lesion, being 3 types of fl aps: posterior, anterior, and free. Material and Method. We present a case of a patient presenting an ulcer of Marjolin at the right trochanteric region. In which an extended external hemipelvectomy anterior fl ap is performed. It is a muscle cutaneous fl ap pediculated to the superfi cial and deep femoral vessels, composed of all the planes of the anterior thigh lodge. Results. In our patient we have reached an adequate coverage of the defect, which allowed an early rehabilitation of the patient. Discussion. This fl ap is described as a pedicled fl ap in the superfi cial femoral vessels. We believe that this fl ap is vascularized by these vessels, but its major vascularization is given by the deep femoral artery and its circumfl ex lateral branch. This fl ap allows adequate coverage in posterior lesions, with a good quality of coverage, and a lower number of complications than the posterior fl ap. Comments. External hemipelvectomy is an aggressive treatment performed for locally advanced lesions, with high morbidity and mortality, which must be performed by an interdisciplinary team. Regarding the coverage, we highlight the good results achieved by this fl ap given its good vascularization.

Pelvic Floor Reconstruction Utilizing a Residual Hamstring Rotational Flap Following Traumatically Induced Subtotal Hemipelvectomy in a Combat Blast Casualty: A Case Report.

OBJECTIVE: There are several options for soft tissue coverage following external hemipelvectomy; however, in cases of war-related blast trauma, standard flaps are not always available as a result of the extensive soft tissue damage. METHODS: We detail a novel closure technique following a subtotal hemipelvectomy with exposed abdominal viscera using a residual hamstring myofascial cutaneous flap. RESULTS: This flap allowed for fascial tissue to fill the pelvic defect and provided excellent soft tissue coverage for future prosthetic wear. DISCUSSION: In the current literature, there is limited information regarding surgical options for soft tissue coverage following traumatic hip disarticulation. Most cases result from malignancies or severe infection, where tissue distal to the lesion is viable and provides adequate coverage. This case report used a novel technique, provided excellent soft tissue coverage with no wound healing complications, allowed for excellent prosthetic fitting, and the patient's ability to ambulate without assistance.

Functional outcome measures of patients following hemipelvectomy.

BACKGROUND: Major amputations are indicated for curative treatment of some tumors of the pelvis. Previous literature suggests that patients with a hemipelvectomy amputation are more efficient walking with crutches than using a prosthesis. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether modern prosthetic use after hemipelvectomy may be a viable option for patients than in the past. STUDY DESIGN: Case control trial. METHODS: We identified five patients who underwent hemipelvectomy amputation and fit with high-level prosthetic components. Patients were evaluated using a timed up and go, 5-m walk, 400-m walk, and stair climb tests to evaluate functional performance with a prosthesis and without. Short Form-36 scores were collected as well. These results were compared to matched controls. RESULTS: There was a trend for faster locomotion using crutches over wearing a prosthesis in the timed up and go, and 5-m and 400-m walk; no difference was seen in stair climbing. Short Form-36 scores showed decreased physical component score, but equal mental component score compared to the general population. CONCLUSION: Our results show that in addition to advances in surgical techniques, prosthetic rehabilitation and management are beginning to optimize functional mobility with the prosthesis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Patients who use a modern prosthesis following hemipelvectomy demonstrated good clinical function with and without their prosthesis. Although health status scores were decreased in the physical component, mental component scores were equal to healthy controls.

Rehabilitation considerations for a patient with external hemipelvectomy and hemisacrectomy for recurrent soft tissue pelvic sarcoma: a case report.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: External hemipelvectomy (EHP) is an uncommon procedure involving surgical amputation of the lower extremity and hemipelvis. Soft tissue sarcomas of the pelvis are rare and accompanied by a high risk of disease progression after surgical intervention. The purpose of this case report is to describe the rehabilitation considerations and importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve functional goals to allow discharge with improved independence and decreased caregiver burden. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 58-year-old Caucasian male patient underwent a hemipelvectomy and hemisacrectomy for treatment of a recurrent pelvic soft tissue sarcoma following 4 months of bed confinement secondary to pain and weakness of the involved lower extremity. This report outlines the physical therapy interventions during 3 weeks of inpatient rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: This case demonstrates that continuous interdisciplinary care of a complex patient with EHP and hemisacrectomy contributes to significant improvement in functional mobility exceeding prior level of function. This case is particularly interesting because in addition to having a rare diagnosis and undergoing an uncommon surgical procedure, this patient was confined to bed for 4 months prior to surgical intervention, and thus began rehabilitation with a baseline of limited functional mobility and high caregiver burden.

Prosthetic Rehabilitation After Hip Disarticulation or Hemipelvectomy.

OBJECTIVE: Prosthetic rehabilitation after pelvic-level amputation (hemipelvectomy/hip disarticulation) is difficult, and because of this, many patients are never fit with a prosthetic limb. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the characteristics of successful prosthetic users and to determine what factors are associated with successful prosthetic fitting and use. DESIGN: The authors identified 43 patients who underwent hip disarticulation/hemipelvectomy between 2000 and 2010 and were candidates for prosthetic fitting at the authors' institution. The medical records of these patients were then reviewed for pertinent demographic and medical characteristics to identify the profile of successful prosthetic users. RESULTS: Of 43 patients, 18 (43%) successfully used a prosthetic limb. The only preoperative factor associated with unsuccessful prosthetic fitting was coronary artery disease. Specifically, age, body mass index, other medical comorbidities, and demographic characteristics were not associated with successful or unsuccessful prosthetic fitting. Successful users wore their prosthesis an average of 5.8 hrs/day, and most ambulated with one or both hands free. CONCLUSIONS: Successful prosthetic rehabilitation after hemipelvectomy and hip disarticulation is possible. Increased body mass index, advanced age, depression, and other comorbidities should not discourage prosthetic rehabilitation. Most patients that undergo prosthetic rehabilitation enjoy long periods of survival and wear their prosthesis for most of the day.

Hemipelvectomy images of loss caused by war.

As we treat our 230th patient from the Syrian conflict, the pathology we see is more debilitating and the humanitarian needs of the wounded have become even more obvious. This case presents some graphic images of the realities of war. Care in the most advanced units cannot restore broken limbs, let alone broken lives. We present a case of a young war-injured man, who suffered severe crush injury to the pelvis and lower limb, arriving at our medical facility after a delay of hours. The lower limb was shattered from the pelvis down (essentially a traumatic hemipelvectomy). His life had been saved in Syria by ligation of the femoral vessels in an unknown facility by an unknown medical team. On arrival in a centre in Israel for definitive care of an unsalvageable leg, formal hemipelvectomy was performed.

Hemipelvectomy: high-level amputation surgery and prosthetic rehabilitation.

The hemipelvectomy, most commonly performed for pelvic tumor resection, is one of the most technically demanding and invasive surgical procedures performed today. Adequate soft tissue coverage and wound complications after hemipelvectomy are important considerations. Rehabilitation after hemipelvectomy is optimally managed by a multidisciplinary integrated team. Understanding the functional outcomes for this population assists the rehabilitation team to counsel patients, plan goals, and determine discharge needs. The most important rehabilitation goal is the optimal restoration of the patient's functional independence. Factors such as age, sex, etiology, level of amputation, and general health play important roles in determining prosthetic use. The three main criteria for successful prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with high-level amputation are comfort, function, and cosmesis. Recent advances in hip and knee joints have contributed to increased function. Prosthetic use after hemipelvectomy improves balance and decreases the need for a gait aid. Using a prosthesis helps maintain muscle strength and tone, cardiovascular health, and functional mobility. With new advances in prosthetic components, patients are choosing to use their prostheses for primary mobility.

A single-blind, cross-over trial of hip abductor strength training to improve Timed Up & Go performance in patients with unilateral, transfemoral amputation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate hip abductor strength-training for patients with unilateral transfemoral amputation. DESIGN: Single-blind, cross-over (AB/BA) trial with randomization. SUBJECTS: Seventeen patients with transfemoral amputation. METHODS: Subjects completed 8-week programs of twice weekly hip abductor strength training or arm ergometry. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive either the experimental or active control intervention first. A physiotherapist blinded to group assignment conducted baseline and post-intervention assessments. The Timed Up & Go (TUG) test was selected as the primary outcome measure; secondary measures included the 2 Minute Walk (2MW), hip abductor strength, Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) and prosthetic use. A two-way cross-over ANOVA was used for baseline and post-intervention treatment comparisons. RESULTS: There were no baseline differences between treatments for TUG, 2MW, ABC, Houghton scale, sitting or side-lying abductor strength (p > 0.05 for all), though supine strength was greater for the experimental treatment (p < 0.05). After 8-weeks of hip abductor strength training, there were significant treatment effects for TUG, ABC (p < 0.01 for both), 2MW (p < 0.05), sitting and side-lying abductor strength (p = 0.05 for both), but not for supine strength, prosthetic use, nor thigh girth measures (p > 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that patients with unilateral transfemoral amputation can improve functional performance and balance confidence following intense hip abductor strength training.

Comparison of postoperative rehabilitation in cancer patients undergoing internal and external hemipelvectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare postoperative rehabilitation, functional outcome, and pain management in cancer patients who underwent an internal hemipelvectomy versus an external hemipelvectomy. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Tertiary cancer center. PARTICIPANTS: Patients (N=60) who underwent a hemipelvectomy between February 1996 and November 2005 were included in this study (30 internal hemipelvectomy patients and 30 external hemipelvectomy patients). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Hospital and rehabilitation length of stay (LOS), percentage of physiatrist consultation and inpatient rehabilitation, functional status of transfers and ambulation, and pain medication utilization. RESULTS: The rate of physiatrist consultation and acute rehabilitation admission were 15 (50%) of 30 and 13 (43%) of 30 for internal hemipelvectomy patients, and 16 (53%) of 30 and 16 (53%) of 30 for external hemipelvectomy patients. Median hospital LOS for external hemipelvectomy patients (37d) was significantly longer than for internal hemipelvectomy patients (19d) (P=0.004); median rehabilitation LOS was similar in both groups (20d for external hemipelvectomy patients versus 22 for internal hemipelvectomy patients; P=0.83). On discharge, 14 (47%) of 30 internal hemipelvectomy patients could ambulate without assistance, whereas only 5 (17%) of 30 external hemipelvectomy patients could do so (P=0.013). The median morphine equivalent daily dose at discharge for external hemipelvectomy patients (150mg) was significantly higher than that for internal hemipelvectomy patients (45mg) (P=0.032). CONCLUSIONS: A similar percentage of internal hemipelvectomy and external hemipelvectomy patients were admitted to inpatient rehabilitation. External hemipelvectomy patients had longer hospital LOS, less favorable functional outcome, and required more intense treatment for pain.

Re-ossification of the pelvis following hemipelvectomy for trauma.

We present a patient who underwent delayed sub-periosteal hemipelvectomy for control of infection and to enable soft-tissue cover after trauma. At four months after amputation, clinical examination and radiographs demonstrated almost complete re-ossification of the hemipelvis. This has allowed the patient to regain sitting balance and to use a walking prosthesis designed for patients following disarticulation of the hip. After 14 months from injury, no perineal hernia has developed, and no dysfunction of pelvic organs is attributable to heterotopic bone formation or adhesions. The patient's mobility with a prosthesis is similar to that expected of a through-hip amputee.

The non-vascularised fibular graft: a simple and successful method of reconstruction of the pelvic ring after internal hemipelvectomy.

Internal hemipelvectomy is a standard treatment for malignant tumours of the pelvis. Reconstruction using a non-vascularised fibular graft is relatively straightforward compared to other techniques. We describe the surgical and functional outcomes for a series of ten patients who underwent an internal hemipelvectomy (type I or I/IV) with reconstruction by a non-vascularised fibular graft between 1996 and 2009. A key prerequisite for this procedure was a preserved sciatic notch, confirmed pre-operatively on MRI. Graft-host union was achieved in all patients with a single fibular graft, and in the lower graft where two grafts had been used. The mean time to union was 7.3 months (3 to 12). The upper graft did not unite in four of six cases where two grafts had been used. Seven patients were eventually able to walk without a stick. The mean post-operative Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 75.4% (16.7 to 96.7). There were no cases of deep post-operative infection. The mean pelvic shortening was 0.9 cm (0.2 to 3.4). Recurrent tumour occurred in three cases, and death from tumour-related disease occured in one. Patients who need an internal hemipelvectomy will do well if their pelvic ring is reconstructed with a non-vascularised fibular graft. The complication rate is low, and they attain a good functional outcome.

Functional outcome of hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy: a cross-sectional national descriptive study in the Netherlands.

OBJECTIVE: To describe characteristics of hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy amputees, to assess their level of activities, participation and experienced limitations in mobility and to describe the amputation-related problems. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study. SETTING: Patients were mainly recruited via orthopaedic workshops in the Netherlands. SUBJECTS: Forty-six patients with an acquired unilateral hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy at least one year post amputation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Sickness Impact Profile 68 (SIP 68) to assess the level of activity and participation and the questionnaire Rising and Sitting Down, Walking and Climbing Stairs to assess perceived limitations in mobility. RESULTS: The 46 patients (31 with hip disarticulation and 15 with hemipelvectomy) had a mean age of 55.8 years (SD 12.1). In 78% of cases the reason for amputation was a tumour. Mean SIP 68 was low, 10.5 (SD 6.9). Hip disarticulation amputees had significantly poorer emotional stability than the hemipelvectomy amputees (P = 0.04). All amputees experienced considerable limitations in their mobility according to the Rising and Sitting Down, Walking and Climbing Stairs scores. CONCLUSIONS: Hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy amputees have a relatively high level of activity and participation (SIP scores) but at the same time experience limitations in walking, rising and sitting down and climbing stairs.

Reabilitação na hemipelvectomia traumática / Rehabilitation for traumatic hemipelvectomy

A hemipelvectomia traumática constitui um evento raro, catastófico, cujos mecanismos de lesão e prognóstico são bem descritos na literatura. O crescente número de acidentes motociclísticos têm elevado a prevalência desta amputação, definindo o grupo de vítimas como jovens do sexo masculino sem comorbidade. Acarreta múltiplas sequelas físicas, psicológicas e sociais. Através da reabilitação, o paciente poderá recuperar independência funcional. A protetização é de grande valia, uma vez que os pacientes são jovens com prognóstico de marcha. Neste relato é apresentado o caso de uma vítima de hemipelvectomia traumática do sexo feminino, que se tornou independente para as atividades da vida diária após processo de reabilitação, que incluiu prótese, com melhora da qualidade de vida observada sob diversos aspectos. A protetização adequada não devolveu à paciente todas as finções perdidas, mas se constituiu em um instrumento capaz de melhorar-lhe a qualidade de vida.

[Ablative procedures in surgical treatment of malignant bone tumors]. / Ablative Verfahren bei der operativen Behandlung maligner Knochentumoren.

Limb-sparing surgery is the treatment of choice for primary malignant bone tumors. However, ablative procedures cannot always be avoided. The indication to sacrifice the limb depends on localization, size, and biology of the tumor and does not represent failure of treatment primarily. Amputation of the limb is necessary if there is no other operative procedure to achieve negative surgical margins even if all adjunctive therapeutic options have been considered. Primary ablative resections may be indicated with both curative and palliative intent. Secondary ablative procedures mainly result from local recurrence. Late complications of endoprosthetic or allograft reconstruction also may necessitate ablative surgery. In this paper, general guidelines for ablative surgeries are presented. Following amputation, early prosthetic repair of the extremity is the goal. In those patients with consolidated stump development definitive prosthesis should be adapted. Results of hemipelvectomy and forequarter amputation from our institution are reported. However, this group of patients together with those undergoing shoulder exarticulation and forequarter amputation represent situations with no prosthetic repair possible. The loss of an extremity induces disability and restriction of ego, physical integrity, and quality of life. However, it should be borne in mind that amputation could represent the only chance of cure sometimes. Sharing the decision-making between patient and physician for this procedure is an important step to develop confidence in the therapeutic process. In this setting, direct contact between patients being confronted with the option of an amputation and those patients having already undergone rehabilitative procedures might be very useful.

Use of the Ilizarov technique to improve limb function following hemipelvectomy. A case report.

Various surgical methods have been used for reconstruction after limb salvage surgery for pelvic tumours. We present a case of use of the Ilizarov technique as a second stage adjunct, for the improvement of function, after first stage tumour resection and arthrodesis. This technique is suitable for selected patients with tumour-free survival following the initial resection. Though not described before, our experience indicates it is an alternative to a mammoth one stage internal hemipelvectomy with reconstruction, that is often attempted even though there is a high risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis.