Extraarticular pigmented villonodular synovitis: a cause for failed knee arthroscopy.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Knee Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Oncology

Background:

• Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (DPVS) is a rare joint disorder.
• Arthroscopic synovectomy is a common treatment for DPVS.
• Extraarticular involvement and recurrence are challenges in DPVS management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate outcomes of arthroscopic treatment for persistent, extraarticular diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee.
• To assess demographic, clinical, and functional data in patients with recurrent DPVS.
• To identify factors influencing treatment success and long-term prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 38 consecutive patients with extraarticular DPVS of the knee.
• Analysis of demographic data, clinical symptoms, and surgical parameters.
• Assessment of functional outcomes and symptom recurrence after arthroscopic synovectomy.

Main Results:

• The study included 38 patients (23 males, 15 females; average age 31.7 years).
• Patients underwent an average of 1.7 arthroscopies.
• While 89.5% reported short-term improvement, all patients experienced worse symptoms and function at long-term follow-up (average 3.63 years).

Conclusions:

• Arthroscopic synovectomy provides only temporary relief for extraarticular diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee.
• Poor long-term outcomes suggest limitations of arthroscopic treatment for this condition.
• Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended for accurate staging and long-term monitoring.