PIGMENTED VILLONODULAR SYNOVITIS OF THE HAND IN THE ASIAN POPULATION

Abstract

Fifty-five localised pigmented villonodular synovitis (giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath) in the hands and wrists in 53 patients, treated in a local hospital over a 5-year period, were reviewed. The mean age at presentation was 39.9 years, with 84.9% of the cases being Chinese. There was a predilection for the ring finger and females. There was no significant association with antecedent trauma. 56.4% of patients had associated X-rays changes. All patients had complete excision of the tumour and 4 recurrences noted, giving a rate of 7.3%. Follow-up period range from 1 to 5 years. Postoperative morbidity consisted of two cases with mild stiffness. There was good local control with minimal morbidity and low recurrence rate.