Pasteurized intercalary autogenous bone graft: radiographic and scintigraphic features

Abstract  

Objective. Pasteurized autogenous bone graft sterilized at a low temperature (60°C) is one option for reconstruction after resection of bone and soft tissue tumors. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the normal and abnormal radiographic and scintigraphic findings of pasteurized intercalary autogenous bone graft after resection of bone and soft tissue sarcomas.

Design. This was a retrospective evaluation of the radiography and bone scintigraphy findings in patients after treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas using an intercalary pasteurized autogenous bone graft.

Patients. Among 10 consecutive patients, eight had intercalary grafts, and they constitute the subjects of this study. All available radiography and bone scintigraphy findings were reviewed for the healing process and the possibility of complications.

Results and conclusions. Healing and incorporation of the graft were observed in five patients during the follow-up, but the other three did not heal satisfactorily. Rapid incorporation of pasteurized autogenous bone graft can be demonstrated by means of radiography and bone scintigraphy.