Arthroscopic Management of Anterior Ankle Synovial Osteochondromatosis

Abstract

Surgical treatment has been recommended as the first choice of therapy in second and third stages of the disease. Complete synovectomy and removal of all loose bodies is advisable for prevention of recurrence of the disease. Recently, arthroscopic treatment of synovial chondromatosis is gaining popularity because of its favorable outcomes and very low complication and recurrence rates. Arthroscopic approach also allows management of concomitant pathology. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe the technique of arthroscopic synovectomy and removal of loose bodies as treatment of synovial chondromatosis localized in the anterior compartment of the ankle joint.

Arthroscopic management of ankle primary synovial chondromatosis (Reichel's syndrome): A case report with literature review

“…Conversely, some reports have documented the inadequacy of non-surgical measures in alleviating patient symptom [ 11 ]. Tan et al considers the application of surgical treatment for stage 2 and 3, [ 12 ] while Shearer et al state that non-surgical treatment during stages 2 and 3 in weight-bearing joints (such as the ankle and hip) might precipitate premature osteoarthritis [ 11 ]. Specific investigations have additionally documented a 5 % chance of malignancy emergence, especially when cases remain untreated over an extended period [ 13 ].…”

“…Firstly, when the disease is concomitant with severe degenerative joint disease. Secondly, when it is associated with extra-articular chondromatosis, such as involvement of tendon sheaths and bursae [ 12 ]. Nevertheless, research with larger sample sizes, control groups, or systematic reviews holds potential to provide a more comprehensive understanding of tailored therapeutic measures for this condition.…”