Retrospective Analysis of Giant Cell Tumor Lower End Radius Treated with En bloc Excision and Translocation of Ulna

Distal end of radius is third most common site for GCT of long bones and 1% of these metastasize mostly to lungs. Reconstruction methods commonly used are fibula (vascularized and nonvascularized), centralization of ulna, translocation of ulna, and endoprosthetic replacement. We report the outcome of series of twenty cases where we did en bloc excision of tumor with translocation of ulna.

Twenty cases of giant cell tumor (GCT) of lower end of radius were included in this retrospective study. The mean age of patients was 33.15 years (range 21-55 years). We had 14 of Campanacci Grade III and 6 of Grade II. Preoperative radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging of the involved wrist and forearm were done.

Of all twenty patients, 14 were males and 6 were females. Mean followup duration was 3.9 years (range 1.5-17 years). Mean grip strength of involved side as a percentage of normal side was 71% (range 42%-86%) and the actual mean value for operated side was 29 kg as compared to 40 kg for normal side. The average range of forearm movement was supination 80.25° (60°-90°) and pronation 77.5° (70°-90°). No patient was dissatisfied as far as cosmesis was concerned.

In our opinion considering the propensity to recur with more aggressiveness after recurrence, en bloc excision with translocation of ulna has become a standard treatment option for GCT of lower end of radius, with advantages of better functional outcomes, retained vascularity, and elimination of risk of donor site morbidity.