A Surgical Approach to Giant Cell Tumor of Lower End of Tibia with Curettage and Reconstruction by Bone Grafting Harvested from Left Iliac Crest and K-wire Fixation: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Giant cell tumor (GCT) is a distinctive lesion characterized by the proliferation of multinucleate giant cells in a stroma of mononuclear cells; it is generally seen in skeletally mature individuals. GCT is usually found in the long bones around the knee or in the distal radius but distal end of tibia, proximal humerus, vertebrae of young adults are unusual location. We report a case of GCT of the distal end of tibia, with a secondary aneurysmal bone cyst, in a 26-year-old female. Based on our review of the medical literature, it appears that the occurrence of a GCT along with a secondary aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) in distal end of tibia is less typical with challenging task for full tumor resection and restoration of ankle function to normal. Case Summary: 26 year old female presented with pain&swelling over left ankle since last six month. Biopsy was suggestive of GCT with ABC of lower third tibia. We managed this case with intralesional curettage using phenol and burr and bone graft harvested from left iliac crest for reconstruction of defect along with kwire fixation to achieve optimum anatomical restoration. Conclusion: In cases of GCT, the management depends upon the various factors such as site, age, involvement of the bone, extent of bone involvement and whether there is articular involvement or not. Here Intra-articular GCT is managed with extended intralesional curettage with phenol. Bone graft plays a role of agent for reconstruction of the defect and kwire for anatomical reduction.