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. 2014;5(12):1010-3.
doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2014.10.083. Epub 2014 Oct 29.

Arthroscopic treatment of synovial chondromatosis in the ankle joint

Ahmet Ozmeric  1 , Nevres Hurriyet Aydogan  1 , Onur Kocadal  2 , Talip Kara  1 , Murad Pepe  1 , Serap Gozel  3
Affiliations

Arthroscopic treatment of synovial chondromatosis in the ankle joint

Ahmet Ozmeric et al. Int J Surg Case Rep. 2014.

Abstract

Introduction: Synovial chondromatosis is characterized by the presence of metaplastic cartilage nodules originating from the synovia, bursa and tendon sheaths. Although it is extremely rare in the ankle joint, malignant transformation is possible. The choice of treatment is usually open surgery for excision of loose bodies and synovectomy. Limited data is available concerning arthroscopic approaches.

Presentation of case: A 28-year-old male patient was evaluated for pain and swelling of the right ankle joint. Based on the findings of physical examination and radiographic investigations, arthroscopic surgery was performed due to ankle impingement syndrome. A diagnosis of synovial osteochondromatosis was made following the pathological survey.

Discussion: Synovial chondromatosis is slowly progressive and is considered to be a self-limiting situation. Treatment strategies are decided on according to the patient's complaints, age and disease stage. Open or arthroscopic surgery. can be performed. Some advantages of arthroscopic surgery are wide visualization areas, easy access to areas difficult to reach, lower morbidity, no necessity for casting and immobilization, early rehabilitation and quick recovery period.

Conclusion: In conclusion, arthroscopic management can be successful in selected patients with synovial osteochondromatosis localized to the ankle joint.

Keywords: Ankle; Arthroscopic treatment; Osteochondromatosis; Synovial chondromatosis.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The lateral plain radiographic image of the ankle joint. Multiple calcified foci are seen on the anterior aspect of the ankle joint.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
The loose bodies are demonstrated on the anterior aspect of the ankle joint in the sagittal T1-weighted MRI.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Arthroscopic view of the anterior ankle compartment showing multiple loose bodies.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
The macroscopic appearance of the loose bodies after arthroscopic excision.
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Cartilage proliferation is diagnosed during histopathologic evaluation of loose bodies with Hematoxylin–Eosin dye.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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