Arthroscopic Excision of Osteoid Osteoma of the Elbow

Osteoid osteoma has been reported infrequently around the elbow joint, and is usually treated with radiofrequency ablation or open excision. Elbow arthroscopy is useful for excision of accessible lesions, and the accompanying elbow stiffness can be treated concurrently. This report describes an arthroscopic excision of an osteoid osteoma located in the juxta-articular distal humeral bone. An initial adhesiolysis and capsulectomy is performed to gain access to the region above the capitellar articular margin. A 70° arthroscope is necessary to visualize this region via the anteromedial portal. An accessory lateral portal is used to detach the capsule from the distal humerus; the scar tissue overlying the lesion is debrided and the circumferential lesion is visualized and probed for identification of its extent. A biopsy is performed, and thereafter the lesion is excised piecemeal. The sclerotic margins are curetted, and radiofrequency ablation is performed. The technique is cosmetic and minimally invasive, and can be performed in revision scenarios involving recurrences after open surgery or needle radiofrequency thermal ablation. Early rehabilitation restores range of motion and strength. Technical tips for identification and curettage of the lesion are presented.