Arthroscopic Management of Metacarpophalangeal Joint Synovial Chondromatosis

Synovial chondromatosis is a rare condition where cartilaginous nodules form within the synovium, which can detach and cause loose bodies within the joint. While it typically affects larger joints, involvement of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints is rarely described. We report the case of a 42-year-old female patient who had a slow-growing mass in her right third MCP (MCP III) joint, associated with limited finger motion, swelling, and pain. The diagnosis was confirmed using imaging studies. The patient underwent arthroscopic excision of multiple tumors and synovectomy via dorsal radial and ulnar MCP III portals. Postoperatively, there was rapid improvement in hand function, including normal and pain-free range of motion. This case highlights the benefits of arthroscopic management for synovial chondromatosis in the MCP joint, as it offers advantages like minimal invasiveness, reduced tissue damage, faster recovery times, and lower infection risk compared with traditional open methods.