Fibular Graft Reconstruction Shows Good Outcomes in Distal Radius Giant cell tumors: study

Written By : Dr Supreeth D R Published On 2026-09-19T09:15:37+05:30 | Updated On 19 Sept 2026 2:49 PM IST

En-bloc resection and proximal fibular autograft reconstruction for distal radius GCTs provide satisfactory functional outcomes: study

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) of the distal radius present significant reconstructive challenges following wide resection. Proximal fibular autograft reconstruction has been a biologically compatible solution, particularly valuable in resource-limited settings. The study by Mir Shahid ul Islam et al evaluated clinical and functional outcomes of this technique.

The authors retrospectively analyzed 14 patients (10 females, four males; mean age 30.9±5.4 years) with eight Campanacci grade II (57.1%) and six patients of grade III (42.9%) distal radius GCTs treated with en-bloc resection and proximal fibular autograft reconstruction. Outcomes were assessed using Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores, range of motion (ROM) measurements, grip strength, and complication rates.

The key results of the study were:

• Mean MSTS score was 20.6±2.9 (range 15-24).

• Mean wrist ROM included flexion 28.2°±7.0°, extension 20.7°±6.1°, radial deviation 10.1°±3.3°, and ulnar deviation 10.0°±4.4°.

• Forearm rotation was well preserved (supination 45.4°±14.7°, pronation 49.6°±10.5°).

• Grip strength averaged 60.9%±7.4% of the contralateral side.

• Complications included seven fibula-carpal subluxations (50%), four fibula-ulnar diastases (28.6%), one non-union (7.1%), and one transient foot drop (7.1%).

• The majority of our patients (n=11, 78.5%) were either pain-free or had mild pain, while only three patients (21.5%) had moderate pain, with none having intolerable pain.

• All patients achieved independence in activities of daily living. Among seven manual laborers, four returned to their original work while three required modifications; all non-manual workers resumed pre-operative activities.

The authors concluded – “En-bloc resection and proximal fibular autograft reconstruction is a viable treatment for distal radius GCT, providing acceptable function despite complications (e.g., non-union, instability). It avoids the use of prostheses or bone banks, making it practical in resource-limited settings. The majority of patients regain the ability to perform daily activities, and many can even return to manual labor, though some may require job modifications. While retrospective data show promise, prospective trials comparing fibular autografts to other treatment methods are needed. Nevertheless, it remains a durable biological solution with satisfactory outcomes.”

For further details on the article refer to:

Distal Radius Reconstruction With Nonvascularized Proximal Fibular Autograft After en- Bloc Resection of Giant Cell Tumors: A Retrospective Study Mir Shahid ul Islam et al Cureus 17(7): e88840. DOI 10.7759/cureus.88840

autologous fibula graftdistal radius gctgctmsts scorereconstruction after tumor resection

Source : Cureus journal

Dr Supreeth D R

MBBS, Dip. Ortho, DNB ortho, MNAMS

Dr Supreeth D R (MBBS, Dip. Ortho, DNB ortho, MNAMS) is a practicing orthopedician with interest in medical research and publishing articles. He completed MBBS from mysore medical college, dip ortho from Trivandrum medical college and sec. DNB from Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru. He has expirence of 7years in the field of orthopedics. He has presented scientific papers & posters in various state, national and international conferences. His interest in writing articles lead the way to join medical dialogues. He can be contacted at editorial@medicaldialogues.in.

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