[Corticoplasty for multiple enchondromatosis of hand]

To evaluate the results of corticoplasty for multiple enchondromatosis of the hand.

Between February 2003 and January 2011, 6 patients with multiple enchondromatosis were treated. Of 6 cases, 1 was boy and 5 were girls with an average age of 10.8 years (range, 9-12 years); 5 cases presented with painless mass as first symptom, and 1 case was found to have mass by X-ray film because of hand injury. Physical examination at admission showed multiple mass on the hands, fingers deformity, and limited range of motion; X-ray film results showed large lesions in the phalanges and metacarpals. Corticoplasty and simple curettage without bone grafting were performed on 24 fingers (60 bones) with multiple enchondromatosis of the hand. The fingers active range of motion was used to evaluate the finger function; the diameter of the tumors was measured on the X-ray films; and according to Tordai's classification, tumor recurrence and new bone formation were observed.

Once, twice, or three-time operations were performed in 2 cases, respectively. All patients were followed up 17-83 months with an average of 52.2 months. At last follow-up, the active range of motion was significantly increased from (230.8 +/- 53.2) degrees at preoperation to (255.0 +/- 28.7) degrees at postoperation (t = -3.829, P = 0.001); the tumor diameter was significantly decreased from (15.6 +/- 5.8) mm at preoperation to (10.7 +/- 3.7) mm at postoperation (t = 8.304, P = 0.000). Of 60 bones, 34 (56.7%) were rated as Tordai grade 1, and 26 (43.3%) as Tordai grade 2. During follow-up, clinical manifestation, characteristics of radiology and pathological examination showed no pathological fracture or malignant change.

Corticoplasty is a safe and effective treatment for multiple enchondromatosis of the hand in children. The procedure can improve appearance and motion function of the hand.