A METHOD OF RECONSTRUCTION OF THE DISTAL FIBULA POST-TUMOR RESECTION: A CASE REPORT

Moreau G., Barei D.

Malignant lesions of the distal fibula are quite unusual. Treatment of these lesions requires wide margins that necessarily sacrifice a portion of distal fibula including the syndesmotic and supporting lateral ligaments as well as the lateral malleolus. The literature discusses distal fibulectomy as a method of treatment with reasonable function of the ankle post-resection. We present a case report of a method of reconstruction of the distal fibula in an effort to improve functional recovery.

A 16 year old was diagnosed with a low grade epithelioid hemangioendothelioma involving the distal fibula. She underwent wide resection which necessitated removal of the distal 7cm of distal fibula. Reconstruction was done using the ipsilateral proximal fibula. The lateral ligamentous supporting structures were reconstructed as was a sling for the peroneal tendons. At two years follow-up, the patient is free of disease with essentially normal function of the ankle, and an asymptomatic, stable ipsilateral knee.