Giant Cell Tumor Treated with Extended Curettage in Young Adults: A Case Series of 30 Patients

Abstract

Background:Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is a locally aggressive benign neoplasm predominantly affecting young adults. Extended curettage has been established as a limb-salvaging procedure with favorable outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of extended curettage with allograft reconstruction in young adults.

Methods:A prospective case series was conducted involving 30 patients aged 2–20 years diagnosed with GCT. All patients underwent extended curettage followed by allograft reconstruction. The upper limb was involved in 60% of cases  and the lower limb in 40%. Patients were followed for a minimum of 24 months. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score, and radiographic healing was evaluated at 3 months. Recurrence and complications were recorded.

Results:The cohort included 70% males and 30% females. At 2 years, recurrence was observed in 5% of cases. Functional outcomes were very good in 70%, good in 20%, fair in 5%, and poor in 5% of patients. Radiographic union of the graft was seen in the majority of patients at 3 months. One patient required amputation due to local recurrence and soft tissue extension.

Conclusion:Extended curettage with allograft reconstruction is an effective limb-salvaging procedure for treating GCT in young adults. It provides excellent functional outcomes and low recurrence rates, making it a viable alternative to more radical procedures such as en bloc resection.