The closed cryosurgical treatment of giant cell tumor

Twelve patients with giant cell tumor (GCT) treated by the closed method of cryotherapy along with curettage and bone grafting were reviewed retrospectively. Follow-up examinations ranged from two years and two months to 11 years. There was one osseous and one soft-tissue recurrence. There were no thermally related soft-tissue complications. Five patients suffered six postoperative pathologic fractures. Joint function was well preserved in ten of 12 patients, although five patients have varying degrees of joint pain or instability. Closed cryotherapy, curettage, and bone grafting are effective in the treatment of GCT. Special attention to surgical approach, controlled freezing, bone grafting technique, and a supervised rehabilitation program will minimize the incidence of postoperative pathologic fracture and maximize joint function.