BACKGROUND: The shoulder is commonly affected by primary and metastatic tumors. Current surgical techniques for complex shoulder reconstruction frequently result in functional deficits and instability. A synthetic mesh used in vascular surgery has the biological properties to provide mechanical constraint and improve stability after tumor related shoulder reconstruction. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We describe (1) surgical technique using a synthetic mesh during humerus reconstructions; (2) functional level defined as shoulder ROM of patients undergoing the procedure; (3) incidence of postoperative dislocation and shoulder instability; and (4) complications associated with the use of the device. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 16 patients with proximal humerus replacements reconstructed with a synthetic mesh from February 2006 to July 2008. Patients were followed clinically and radiographically for a minimum of 13 months (mean, 26 months; range, 13-43 months). RESULTS: There were no shoulder dislocations at the latest followup. The mean shoulder flexion was 43 degrees (range, 15 degrees -170 degrees ) and mean shoulder abduction of 38 (range, 15 degrees -110 degrees ). The mean operative time was 121 minutes (range, 80-170 minutes) and the mean blood loss was 220 mL (range, 50-750 mL). One patient had a superficial wound infection and none a deep infection requiring removal of the graft or prosthesis. CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest the use of a synthetic vascular mesh for proximal humerus reconstruction may reduce dislocations and facilitate soft tissue attachment and reconstruction after tumor resection.
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