Synovial Chondromatosis of the Shoulder: Report of Two Cases

Synovial chondromatosis is an uncommon, progressive, benign condition favoring synovial metaplasia resulting from the production of cartilaginous tissue as loose bodies within the joints. In rare cases, it can affect the interior of the shoulder joint and present with pain, edema, and impaired mobility. The diagnosis is challenging, requiring imaging techniques. Its confirmation often occurs only after surgical treatment and anatomopathological examination. The authors report two cases of patients with similar clinical presentations of pain, edema, and mobility loss in the shoulder joint. The investigation included imaging exams, such as radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging, and an anatomopathological examination confirming the diagnostic hypothesis. Arthroscopic surgical treatment with synovectomy and removal of loose bodies followed by physical therapy rehabilitation resulted in clinical improvement in both patients. This report emphasizes the importance of investigating suspected synovial chondromatosis due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. Comparing our outcomes with the literature, we concluded that surgical treatment with synovectomy, loose body removal, and physical therapy is effective, and that long-term outpatient follow-up is necessary to detect recurrence.