Favourable results of acrylic cementation for giant cell tumors

A consecutive series from two university hospitals of 50 patients with giant cell tumors was reviewed and histologically reconfirmed. The patients treated with curettage and acrylic cement were re-examined concerning function. Two of 14 cemented tumors had recurred but could be treated by additional cementation, so that no final failure of this method had occurred, compared to one of 19 radically resected and 12 of 22 with bone-graft after curettage. Joint function was normal in 11 and radiographic arthrosis of low grade was found in only two of 14 patients. It is concluded that this method gives a minimum of recurrence and a maximum of function. It is suggested that the old name of "giant cell sarcoma" should be reintroduced, bringing the tumor into the group of low-grade sarcomas where it belongs.