ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results and the advantages of the operative treatment of metastatic pathologic fractures in long bones using locking compression plates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five patients (28 cases) who underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a locking compression plate with or without cement augmentation for pathologic fractures in long bones resulting from metastatic cancer between 2004 and 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. Mean age at the time of surgery was 62.8 years. Pathologic fractures occurred in 11 cases in the humerus, 11 cases in the femur, and 6 cases in the tibia. Functional analysis of Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores, functional restoration condition of patients with upper extremity involvements, and interval to wheelchair ambulation in patients with lower extremity involvements was performed. Pain relief (visual analogue scale, VAS) and operation time, postoperative satisfaction with individuals, and complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Mean operation time was 81.3 minutes and mean MSTS scores were 19.8. Mean time from operation to wheelchair ambulation was 3.3 days. Mean VAS improved from 8.1 preoperatively to 2.9 at 1 week postoperatively. Most patients reported that they were more than 'satisfied' One transient radial nerve palsy and one late complication of screw breakage and reduction loss had occurred at postoperative 3 months. CONCLUSION: Internal fixation with a locking compression plate in metastatic pathologic fractures can be an effective treatment option in the meta or diaphyseal area of long bones.