Abnormal scarring with keloid formation after osteochondroma excision in children with multiple hereditary exostoses

Multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE) is an autosomal dominant condition characterized by numerous cartilage-capped exostoses/osteochondromas in areas of actively growing bone. Abnormal scarring with keloid formation after osteochondroma excision in children with MHE has not been previously described.

A retrospective double-cohort study was undertaken to determine if children with MHE have a higher rate of abnormal scarring with keloid formation after osteochondroma excision when compared with those with solitary osteochondroma. In the initial phase, all consecutive children with MHE that underwent excision of osteochondroma with a minimum 2-year postoperative follow-up were identified. A control group of age-matched cases of solitary osteochondroma was subsequently identified. All patients were interviewed for wound healing problems and noncosmetic scarring. All patients with unsatisfactory scars were asked to send pictures and/or were invited for follow-up. Data were statistically analyzed.

Eighty-three surgeries were performed in 25 patients with MHE, whereas 25 surgeries were performed in 25 patients with solitary osteochondroma. Twelve keloid scars were noted in 7 patients with MHE, and no keloids were noted in any of the patients in the solitary group. Diagnosis of MHE was a statistically significant risk factor for formation of keloids after surgery (P < 0.05).

Abnormal scarring with keloid formation after osteochondroma excision in MHE has not been previously reported. Although this study has limited numbers, the results demonstrate a statistically significant correlation between keloid formation and MHE. The risk for abnormal scarring and keloid formation should be discussed with all patients before surgery.