Localized pigmented villonodular synovitis of the ankle: Expect the unexpected.

BACKGROUND

We present the technique, results and discuss arthroscopic treatment of the localized form of pigmented villonodular synovitis (LPVNS) of the ankle.

METHODS

Medical records of five patients diagnosed and treated for ankle LPVNS with a minimum five-year followup were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were treated arthroscopically, altered synovial tissue was resected and a sample of tissue was sent for pathohistological examination for the definitive diagnosis.

RESULTS

No recurrence was noted at a mean followup of 6.5 years, both clinically and by MRI at one year postoperatively. Patients were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score, and an improvement was noted from an average score of 65.6 prior to treatment to 94.6 at final followup.

CONCLUSION

Considering the results of this case series, and the absence of complications, arthroscopy is a viable option for treating LPVNS of the ankle.