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Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee: computed tomographic appearances
W P Butt1, G Hardy, S J Ostlere
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK.
Skeletal Radiology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Contrast-enhanced CT scans are valuable for diagnosing pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the knee. This imaging technique helps identify recurrent PVNS and masses originating from the knee joint.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare joint disorder.
- Accurate preoperative diagnosis of PVNS can be challenging.
- Plain radiography may not reveal characteristic PVNS findings.
Observation:
- Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was used in five patients with knee PVNS.
- The study evaluated the utility of CT in diagnosing and localizing PVNS.
- Unenhanced CT scans did not show specific features of PVNS, such as fat density or haemosiderin deposits.
Findings:
- Contrast-enhanced CT effectively identified PVNS lesions, including recurrent cases.
- The technique accurately located masses in the popliteal region and posterior calf, confirming their origin from the knee joint.
- In two patients, PVNS was not initially suspected before CT imaging.
Implications:
- Preoperative contrast-enhanced CT is crucial for accurate PVNS diagnosis and surgical planning.
- This imaging modality can differentiate PVNS from other conditions presenting as knee masses.
- Enhanced CT improves the detection of PVNS, especially when bone erosion is absent on plain radiographs.