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Localized pigmented villonodular synovitis presenting as recurrent dislocation of the patella
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, England. matt@bartlett.org.uk
Summary
Pigmented villonodular synovitis can cause recurrent patellar dislocations. This vascular synovial tumor was successfully resected, resolving the patient's knee symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Musculoskeletal Oncology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Recurrent patellar dislocation is a debilitating condition.
- Vascular synovial tumors are rare intra-articular masses.
- Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVS) can present with mechanical knee symptoms.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old female presented with a year of recurrent patellar dislocations.
- Physical examination revealed a mass along the medial patellofemoral joint line.
- Arthroscopy identified a vascular synovial tumor causing lateral patellar deviation.
Findings:
- Histologic examination confirmed the mass as pigmented villonodular synovitis.
- Surgical resection of the tumor led to complete resolution of patellar instability.
- PVS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mechanical knee symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights PVS as a treatable cause of patellar instability.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can prevent long-term joint damage.
- Increased awareness of PVS in orthopedic practice is warranted.