Complications related to harvest of the proximal end of the fibula: A systematic review

Oded Ben Amotz, Rey Ramirez, Tarik Husain, Craig Lehrman, Sumeet Teotia, Douglas M. Sammer

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: The fibula is a common source of bone graft used in skeletal reconstruction. Although in most cases only the diaphysis of the fibula is used, there are clinical scenarios in which the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head are harvested for use in articular reconstruction. The purpose of this systematic review is to determine the incidence of knee instability and peroneal nerve motor dysfunction associated with removal of the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head. Methods: A systematic search was performed using the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and cochrane databases. Studies accepted for review included those that clearly reported donor site morbidity (instability or peroneal nerve motor dysfunction) after proximal fibula resection. All studies in which the proximal fibula was resected for bone graft or for marginal resection of tumor were included. Results: Fifteen studies reporting a total of 337 patients were included. The rate of symptomatic knee instability after proximal fibula resection was 3.9%. The incidence of instability that was detectible on physical examination or stress radiographs was higher. Although transient motor dysfunction was not uncommon, the incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction was 2.6%. Conclusion: Although asymptomatic laxity is common, the incidence of symptomatic knee instability after resection of the proximal fibula is relatively low. The incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction is also low when the nerve is intentionally protected during surgery.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)666-669
Number of pages4
JournalMicrosurgery
Volume34
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2014

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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