Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In this study, we evaluated 13 patients who were treated and followed-up for synovial chondromatosis in our clinic.

METHODS

Fifteen patients (9 males, 6 females,; mean age 43 years; range 16 to 72 years) had synovial chondromatosis localized in the knee (n=6), shoulder (n=3), hip (n=2), elbow (n=2), and ankle (n=2). Joint loose bodies were removed together with total synovectomy by open surgery in thirteen patients. Histopathologic confirmation was obtained in all the patients. Two patients refused surgical treatment and were treated conservatively. The mean follow-up period was 71 months (range 12 to 204 month).

RESULTS

One patient developed recurrence sixteen months after surgery, for which repeat total synovectomy was performed in the shoulder and no other recurrences were observed. No malignant transformation was observed in any patient. Symptomatic improvement was obtained in all the patients with treated surgically. Pain and limitation of motion were observed in the patients who were followed up conservatively.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

As a result of our study, it was found that the knee joint was the most commonly involved joint and there was no gender difference in terms of incidence. All patients must be followed-up with regard to recurrence. Further studies are needed on the efficacy of physical therapy in synovial chondromatosis in patients without surgical treatment. Patients often present with non-specific clinical symptoms. Therefore, synovial osteochondromatosis should be kept in mind in patients presenting with pain and swelling.