Vascularised Free Fibular Graft for Reconstruction of Extensive Bone Defect in Nigeria Using Simple Basic Tools: How Feasible and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background: Segmental defects in long bones from any cause often present significant challenge to trauma reconstruction and orthopaedic surgeons. Various options for bridging extensive segmental bone defects have been tried in attempt to find the best method to achieve that. In developing countries, the choices are limited due to unavailability and high cost of sophisticated implants and materials, and the relative lack of expertise and equipment required to carry out some of these procedures. Setting: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Case & Review: This article reports the first use of a free vascularised fibular graft to bridge a long segmental defect in the radius following tumour resection in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria and perhaps the sub region and reviewed the feasibility of such procedure  using basic simple tools Conclusion: Free vascularised fibular graft is an option for bridging large bone defects in Nigeria as long as the required expertise, capacity and facilities are available. It can be less complicated and more economical in well selected patients in the long run compared to other complex reconstruction methods especially if the expertise and basic resources is available.