A Novel, Joint Sparing Surgical Approach to the Management of Giant Cell Tumor of the Distal Radius in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report and Comprehensive Literature Review.

INTRODUCTION

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is a rare, locally aggressive neoplasm predominantly affecting skeletally mature individuals, with infrequent, uncommon occurrence in the pediatric population.

CASE REPORT

This case report describes a young skeletally immature female presenting with a Campanacci grade 3 GCT of the distal radius, characterized an osteolytic lesion sparing the epiphysis. Following biopsy confirmation, the patient underwent wide local excision of the tumor with ulnar translocation, fixed using a distal radius locking plate to preserve joint integrity. Post-operative rehabilitation included physiotherapy to restore wrist mobility and grip strength.

RESULTS

At 2 years post-surgery, the patient demonstrated no re-occurrence of tumor and satisfactory functional outcomes, including 90° dorsiflexion, 35° palmar flexion, 60° pronosupination, and 68% grip strength compared to the contralateral side.

CONCLUSION

This report highlights an innovative surgical approach that preserves joint functionality in pediatric GCT cases, emphasizing the importance of anatomical reconstruction and long-term functional restoration.