Pasteurized tumoral autograft as a novel procedure for limb sparing in the dog: A clinical report.

Objective: To evaluate use of a pasteurized tumoral autograft prepared from the resected primary bone neoplasm for limb sparing in a dog with distal radial osteosarcoma (OSA).

Study Design: Clinical case report.

Animals: A 9-year-old male Maremma shepherd dog.

Methods: After right distal radial OSA removal, the tumoral autograft was pasteurized. The excised bone segment was placed in a sterile watertight box containing sterile saline solution preheated to 65 degrees C in a water bath. The box was kept immersed in the water bath at 65 degrees C for 40 minutes to kill the tumor cells. The autograft was then fixed in the host with a plate and screws based on standard AO/ASIF technique for carpal arthrodesis. Three doses of cisplatin (70 mg/m(2) intravenously) were administered, 3 weeks apart; the initial dose was administered the day after surgery.

Results: The autograft was incorporated in a manner comparable to an allograft, and after 708 days, the metallic implants were removed. A 1-month activity restriction as well as spoon splint to protect the leg from a full loading were used thereafter. Limb function was fair to good, and the dog remains disease free after 56 months.

Conclusions: A pasteurized autograft consisting of the resected primary bone neoplasm is a valid alternative to a cortical bone allograft for limb sparing in dogs with appendicular OSA in terms of feasibility and pattern of healing.

Clinical Relevance: This procedure can be an alternative method of limb sparing when difficulties are encountered in establishing and maintaining a canine bone allograft bank.