Tumours of the ischiofemoral region: The largest case series

The ischiofemoral space (IFS) has gained increasing clinical recognition as a rare source of extra-articular hip pain in cases of ischiofemoral Impingement (IFI). This study presents the largest case series of primary tumours arising in the IFS and aims to provide a descriptive review of the varying lesions that can affect this anatomical region.

A retrospective study at our tertiary orthopaedic oncology unit was conducted, utilising our radiology and oncology databases, as well as the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), to identify all tumours localised in the IFS over 24 years.

From our database, we identified 34 lesions involving the IFS. Among the 34 lesions, 21 were bone and 13 were soft tissue. Of the 21 bone lesions, 19 were benign and 2 were malignant. The most common benign bone lesion identified was osteochondroma (n = 18), whereas the only malignant bone lesion was chondrosarcoma (n = 2). 8 soft tissue lesions were benign, and 5 were malignant. The predominant soft tissue lesion were atypical lipomatous tumours (n = 4), whereas the most prevalent malignant soft tissue lesion was spindle cell sarcoma (n = 4).

Our findings highlight the diversity of lesions encountered, including benign and malignant tumours. The variability in presentation, diagnosis, and management underscores the need for careful imaging and surgical planning.