Osteoid osteoma of the capitate

Two cases of osteoid osteoma of the capitate bone are described. This lesion is rare in the capitate: only ten cases have been reported. Noctural pain was the most significant clinical feature, with characteristic relief by aspirin. The findings on routine x-rays, although not very typical, were sufficient to establish the diagnosis and to make the use of tomograms, bone scans and angiograms unnecessary. Resection "en bloc" through a dorsal approach led to complete cure.