Reconstruction vs. No Reconstruction for Pelvic Resections

Adequate oncologic resection of pelvic tumors with safe margins is challenging. The late diagnosis and wide spread of these tumors at the time of initial detection, the highly demanding procedures for complete resection of pelvic tumors, and the high rate of complications following these procedures are some of the causative factors for the poor prognosis for these patients. On the other hand, reconstruction of the bone defect must be considered on a case-by-case basis as it is a complex issue with no strong guidelines. The available reconstruction techniques provide better functional results over nonreconstruction since hip and lower limb functions are preserved, but at the expense of a higher complication rate. This chapter will focus on the principles, advantages, and disadvantages of pelvic resections with and without reconstruction.