Twenty cases of giant cell tumour of bone treated over an eleven year period were analysed. The minimum follow-up time was two years with an average of six years. Primary treatment consisted of a detailed curettage alone, without bone graft. A recurrence rate of 35% (7 patients) was recorded. Cases of recurrence were suitable for resection and endoprosthetic replacement. We conclude that detailed curettage alone, without bone graft, is an effective primary treatment for patients with giant cell tumour of bone.