Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the foot and ankle treated with surgery and radiotherapy

Description: We followed up seven patients with histologically confirmed diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis in a prospective study between 1992 ans 2001. The mean age at diagnosis was 30.7 years. The patients underwent synovectomy, followed by radiotherapy with a total dose of 35 Gy in 20 fractions. In all cases, the excision was considered incomplete when examined histologically. At an average follow up of 24 (18-36) months, six patients reported better function and reduced levels of pain. One patient remained symptomatic but did not have a recurrence. We conclude that a combined approach to a primary pigmented villonodular synovitis of the foot and ankle may reduce the risk of recurrence without functional impairment.
Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the foot and ankle treated with surgery and radiotherapy. Lee M, Mahroof S, Pringle J, Short SC, Briggs TW, Cannon SR. Int Orthop. 2005 Dec;29(6):403-5. Full text