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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity
Published on: September 16, 2022
[Pigmented villonodular synovitis involving the thoracic spine: a case report]
I Pechlivanis1, A Tannapfel, J Tüttenberg
1Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medizinische Fakultät Mannheim der Universität Heidelberg. ioannis.pechlivanis@nch.ma.uni-heidelberg.de
Spinal diffuse-type giant cell tumours, a rare cause of thoracic spine masses, are benign. Surgical removal of this pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) led to a patient
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Spinal diffuse-type giant cell tumours (pigmented villonodular synovitis) are rare, benign neoplasms.
- Their presentation in the thoracic spine is exceptionally uncommon.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old male presented with an osteolytic, expansive mass compressing the spinal cord (C7-Th2).
- The mass was surgically resected.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS).
- The patient experienced complete pain resolution and functional recovery 2 years post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering PVNS in the differential diagnosis of thoracic spinal tumors.
- Successful surgical management can lead to excellent long-term outcomes for patients with spinal PVNS.
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