Giant cell tumour of the flexor tendon sheath of the hand: analysis of 27 cases.

Giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is a slowly progressing benign tumour arising from synovial cells of tendon sheaths. It is one of the most common soft tissue tumours in the hand. We report a retrospective study of 27 proven GCTTS of the hand. The mean length of follow-up was 4.5 years (17 months-8.5 years). Radiographic findings are useful and may prove of great diagnostic value. The positive diagnosis was provided by the pathology examination after complete excision that was performed in all patients. The recurrence was noted in two surgically managed cases. The excision should be meticulous and complete in order to avoid recurrence.