Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate functional ability following proximal humeral resection for bone/ soft tissue tumours.
We studied the records of and clinically examined 19 patients with allograft reconstruction following resection of bone/soft tissue tumours.
Although proximal functioning was impaired, all patients could use their arms for activities of daily living. Complications such as sepsis and nonunion occurred in six patients. The tumour recurred in one patient and there were proximal metastases in two. In seven patients there were no complications. Medical, psychological and social concerns were included in the evaluation and in these respects patients expressed satisfaction.
Patient satisfaction and the complication rate were comparable with results in the international literature we surveyed.
Secretary: Dr H.J.S. Colyn, Editor: Professor M.B.E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to SAOA, Box 47363, Parklands, Johannesburg, 2121, South Africa.
