Presentation and outcome of primary tumors of the patella

Demographics, pathology, and outcomes of 7 patellar tumors, including 2 giant cell tumors, 2 chondroblastomas, 1 osteoid osteoma, 1 osteitis fibrosa cystica, and 1 case of myelomatous infiltration, are described. Five male and 2 female patients with a mean age of 42.5 years were followed for an average of 3.5 years. Anterior knee pain was the main presenting symptom. Two patients presented with pathologic fracture. One patient with chondroblastoma underwent curettage only; the second patient underwent curettage and bone grafting. Both patients with giant cell tumors underwent total patellectomy. Patients with osteoblastoma and osteitis fibrosa cystica underwent excision of the lesion. The patient with myeloma underwent radiotherapy. Patellar tumors represent special management problems because of their subcutaneous location, relationship to the extensor mechanism, and difficulties in interpretation of radiographs. A satisfactory outcome can be expected in the majority because of the predominantly benign nature of the lesions and straightforward operative intervention after diagnosis.