Enchondromatosis Affecting the Foot: A Case Report

Abstract

Enchondromatosis is characterised by asymmetrical cartilage lesions of variable distribution that cause pain, deformity, changes to limb length, and potential malignancy. The cause is unknown. The pain associated with enchondromatosis is due to the increasing pressure of the lesions on the surrounding bone. A 16-year-old male with suspected enchondromatosis affecting his left foot was referred to our surgical practice. Physical examination revealed swelling and disfigurement with moderate pain upon palpation of the second and third toes. X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) displayed lesions within the proximal and middle phalanx of the second and proximal phalanx of the third toe. Management involved curettage with insertion of tibial bone graft with percutaneous Kirschner wire stabilisation. Success was defined as the resolution of symptoms, successful take of the graft and normal alignment of the tires. At eight-weeks postoperatively the patient reported no pain and his toes were in normal alignment and not deformed. Enchondromatosis is an uncommon disorder that may respond well to surgical curettage with bone graft.

Keywords

• chondroma
• enchondroma
• maffucci syndrome
• ollier disease
• orthopaedic disease