Tell-tale of a primary and recurrent giant cell tumour of distal ulna: A report of two cases.

INTRODUCTION

Wrist functionality is severely hampered by giant cell tumours (GCT) of the distal ulna, which require careful surgical treatment. A thorough preoperative evaluation and precise tumour grading are essential for developing a treatment plan that maximises functional results while maintaining oncological control.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present 2 cases of distal end ulna giant cell tumour (GCT). The first case involves a primary GCT in a young male, treated with marginal excision and extensor carpi ulnaris tenodesis, with no recurrence over three years. The second case describes a recurrent GCT in a middle-aged male, initially treated with curettage and bone cement in primary stage, followed by a successful marginal excision after recurrence.

DISCUSSION

Distal ulna giant cell tumours (GCTs) are uncommon, violent lesions that have a significant chance of recurring, particularly in Campanacci grade III instances. Stabilisation procedures such as ECU tendon reconstruction address post-resection issues such as discomfort, limited forearm rotation, and grip weakness, although en bloc resection is favoured to minimise recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Both cases highlight the challenges and considerations in managing distal ulna GCTs, emphasizing that en-bloc resection may reduce recurrence rates compared to curettage in grade III Campanacci GCTs.