Claviculectomy for bone tumors

Background: Total or partial excision of the clavicle has been advocated for many neoplastic and non neoplastic conditions. But the functional outcome after claviculectomy for tumours, has not been clearly described. By this study, we aim to analyze the oncological and functional outcome after claviculectomy for tumours of the clavicle. Methods: Between 1991 and 1998, twelve patients underwent claviculectomy for various tumours. Histopathologically, Ewing's sarcoma was the commonest. These patients were followed up for a variable period ranging from 2 to 9 years with a mean follow up of 4.9 years. Results: Functional results were analyzed using AMSTS scoring system. Functional outcome was excellent in 5 cases and good in 7 cases. Two patients of Ewing's sarcoma died of disease and the rest were continuously disease - free at their latest follow up. Conclusion: Partial or total claviculectomy can be successfully employed for bone tumours with good oncological and functional results. A new classification system for claviculectomy is reported, based on the extent of resection