Do we need internal fixation devices for giant cell tumors around knee joint? An outcome study

Abstract

Introduction: Giant cell tumors around the knee joint are the most common aggressive benign tumors. Several limb sparing and limb ablation surgeries are practiced with varying level of success. Here we present an original outcome study conducted on 14 patients with giant cell tumor around the knee joint, treated with intralesional curettage, bone grafting and bone cementing with or without internal fixation. Material and Methods: This is a retrospective study carried out in an institutional set up. Fourteen patients were operated and Internal fixation was used in five cases. the patients were followed up for 2 years minimum. Results: Total fourteen patients were treated with giant cell tumors around knee joint. Phenol cauterization showed reduced recurrence compared to no phenol cauterization. Collapse was noted in cases done with curettage and only cementing or only bone grafting. plating group showed no collapse. No collapse was noted in cases with subchondral bone more than 5 mm. Conclusion: For giant cell tumor, campannaci grade III, internal fixation is suggested if subchondral bone is less than 5 mm and articular involvement is more than 50%.

Keywords

• bone cementing
• bone grafting
• giant cell tumor
• internal fixation
• intralesional curettage