[Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica of the carpus]

Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica is a rare benign osteochondromatous disorder which develops in childhood mostly on the epiphyses of the bones in the lower extremities. While the tarsal bones are often involved, it is very rare in the carpus. Four patients are reported. Two were treated operatively with good results. In consequence of the experience of Lamesch, an excision was not performed in the other two cases. The patients were followed up for many years with the findings of some reduction in size and figure. Therefore, it is recommended not to operate this special tumour as long as no functional disturbances will occur.