En bloc resection of osteosarcoma of the proximal fibula. An analysis of 8 cases.

Osteosarcoma of the proximal fibula is a rare entity that poses a surgical challenge. Limb salvage is the goal of treatment, and this entails sacrifice of the common peroneal nerve as well as the anterior tibial artery. Also the loss of the lateral collateral ligament and biceps attachment leads to unavoidable knee instability which requires special reconstructive procedures. From 2002 to 2008, eight patients with osteosarcoma of the fibular head were treated in our institution with Malawer type II resection. Seven of these patients are still alive without evidence of disease. Our results indicate that the sacrifice of the common peroneal nerve ensures a wide margin of resection which in turn correlates with long-term survival. Furthermore, our technique of reconstruction of lateral knee structures has produced good functional outcome without significant postoperative knee instability.