Hyalonect in the treatment of pseudarthrosis.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate union rates and complications of Hyalonect, a knitted mesh composed of HYAFF, a benzyl ester of hyaluronic acid, and a naturally occurring constituent of the extracellular matrix, for the treatment of pseudarthrosis. The study included 11 patients (8 male, 3 female; mean age: 44.6 years; range: 23 to 57 years) operated for pseudarthrosis using Hyalonect. Average time between initial treatment and surgical procedure was 12.9 (range: 8 to 48) months. Pseudarthrosis of the tibia, femur and humerus was present in 4, 2 and 5 patients, respectively. All patients had undergone prior surgery (1 to 6 times). Each patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Allograft was applied to the pseudarthrosis area and covered with Hyalonect. Mean follow up period was 31 (range: 12 to 48) months. Union was achieved in all patients after an average of 6 (range: 4 to 8) months. One patient had a discharge for two weeks. Another developed an infection which responded well to appropriate antibiotic treatment. No malunion or implant failure was observed. One patient with pre-existing radial nerve palsy maintained the condition. Use of Hyalonect appears to be a safe method with a positive impact on union in the surgical treatment of pseudarthrosis, particularly in the absence of any infection.