Study of Muscle Repair Techniques and Their Impact on Function in Patients Undergoing Proximal Femur Replacement Surgery

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the functional outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for proximal femur replacement due to bone sarcomas or metastatic disease. The study focuses on comparing different abductor muscle repair techniques, particularly whether reattaching the abductors directly to the prosthesis improves patient function. The investigators also intend to develop a simple and reproducible method to assess abductor muscle function using plain radiographs during post-operative visits. Patients treated at Duke University Medical Center with proximal femur replacements performed by orthopedic oncology surgeons will be included. Around 300 patient records will be reviewed retrospectively, and up to 50 patients will be prospectively consented for follow-up, including both preoperative and return appointment patients. The study assesses patients who have undergone or are scheduled for this surgery and observes their outcomes over time. Participants will have their function assessed up to 24 months after surgery using tools like the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society MSTS score and the Harris Hip Score. The study will also monitor implant-related complications and analyze gait through case report forms. Data collection will include chart reviews and clinical evaluations during follow-up visits. The total duration for monitoring outcomes extends to two years postoperatively.

Abductor Reattachment Methods in Proximal Femur Replacements: What is the Best Method?