Giant-cell tumor and chondrosarcomas: grading, treatment and results (studies of 209 and 131 cases)

The Author reviews 209 cases of giant-cell tumor (follow-up 3-42 years in 130 cases) and 131 chondrosarcomas (70 central, 50 peripheral, 11 periosteal; follow-up 10-32 years in 63 cases). Giant-cell tumors are graded into three radiographic types (calm, active, aggressive) and three histologic types (typical, aggressive, sarcoma). Chondrosarcomas were also graded into three radiographic and three histologic types (grades I, II, III). Incidence and mutual relationships of radiographic and histologic grades are presented. In recurrences it is possible to observe a progression of malignancy in giant-cell tumor and - more often - in chondrosarcomas. Results are related to the radiographic and histologic grading and to the type of treatment. Indications for treatment are given according to the experience gained from this study. The Author enumerates the surgical techniques he has found most suitable for the conservative treatment of these tumors when resection is indicated.