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Published on: January 23, 2018
Myositis ossificans within the intercondylar notch treated arthroscopically
Allen H Leung1, Leon D Rybak, Donald J Rose
1Department of Pathology, Hospital for Joint Diseases/New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA. aleung03@yahoo.com
Skeletal Radiology
|June 10, 2010
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of intra-articular myositis ossificans in a child's knee. The condition, often mistaken for other masses, was identified via MRI and treated with arthroscopy.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Radiology
- Musculoskeletal Pathology
Background:
- Myositis ossificans (MO) is a benign heterotopic ossification, typically occurring in soft tissues following trauma.
- Intra-articular MO is exceptionally rare, particularly in pediatric patients, and can mimic other intra-articular pathologies.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to differentiate from malignant neoplasms.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old male presented with right knee pain and swelling after trauma.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture with an associated "cystic mass" in the intercondylar notch.
- The mass was located along the anterior surface of the torn ACL.
Findings:
- Arthroscopic excision of the intercondylar mass was performed.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of myositis ossificans.
- This represents the first reported case of intra-articular MO in the intercondylar notch diagnosed by MRI, treated arthroscopically, and histologically confirmed.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering MO in the differential diagnosis of intra-articular knee masses in children, especially after trauma.
- Demonstrates the utility of MRI in identifying intra-articular MO, aiding surgical planning.
- Emphasizes arthroscopy as an effective treatment modality for symptomatic intra-articular MO, allowing for definitive diagnosis and symptom relief.
