A-0226Distal ulnar arthroplasty as a definitive treatment of a giant cell tumor

Abstract

Osteoid osteomas of the distal phalanx of fingers are uncommon, which illustrates the difficulties in diagnosis. The authors report a case of a 5 year-old girl who presented a painful swelling of the distal phalanx of her right index finger. The phalanx was enlarged with a nail clubbing. Symptomatology had occurred at the age of 18 months. Unnoticed trauma was advocated. The patient underwent two surgical procedures before the diagnosis was brought up and confirmed by tomodensitometry. The tumour was removed, providing pain relief and improved appearance of tip and nail. One year follow-up shows no tumoural recurrence and a satisfying cosmetic appearance. A review of the literature points out that the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma of the distal phalanx is often delayed for several months or years. A better awareness of this tumour may prevent delay in diagnosis and unnecessary operations.