Massive allografts in surgery of bone tumors.

Large osseous and osteoarticular allografts have provided the orthopedic oncologist with a useful biological reconstructive alternative following wide en-bloc resection of bone tumors. Although the surgical procedures are complex, meticulous surgical techniques in terms of graft selection, allograft fixation, reconstruction of joint ligaments and tendons, and adequate skin coverage would produce satisfactory results in about three quarters of the patients. The potential causes of failure include allograft fracture, infection, nonunion and joint instability.