Chondroblastoma

To review all patients with chondroblastoma treated in our hospital between 1993 and 2004.

Six men and 4 women aged 13 to 33 (mean, 21) years with histologically proven chondroblastomas were retrospectively reviewed through our tumour registry, patient records, radiographic and histopathologic reports. All patients underwent intralesional curettage and bone grafting with or without bone cement. The mean follow-up period was 5.5 (range, 2-11.8) years. Functional outcome was measured according to the Enneking scoring system.

The proximal tibia and femur were the most frequently involved sites. All patients presented with pain but only 2 with joint effusion. In 3 patients the lesions were aggressive, in 3 others it was active, and in 4 it was latent. In 2 patients the lesions recurred at 5 and 28 months; both resolved after repeat surgeries without further recurrence. Functional outcomes were either good or excellent, except for one patient with a compartment syndrome of the contralateral leg. No patients had metastasis to lungs or collapse of articular surfaces.

Chondroblastoma is a rare benign bone tumour commonly presenting with pain. Outcomes are usually good after curettage and reconstruction with bone grafting.