SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF PIGMENTED VILLONODULAR SINOVITIS (PVNS) OF THE KNEE: A RETROSPECTIVE SERIES OF 28 CASES

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyze clinical datao n pigmented villon-odular synovitis (PVSN) of the knee as well as outcome after treatment in order to define the diagnostic stages, the surgical treatment, and follow-up modalities for this rare benign proliferative disease of the synovial which predominantly affects the knee joint.

Material and methods: Between 1996 and 2004, 28 patients were managed in our department, 13 men and 15 women, diffuse PVNS in 20 and localized PVNS in 8. IN the localized forms, symptoms were similar to those observed in knees with intra-articular foreign bodies or a meniscal lesion (75%) was present for 14 months on average at the first consultation. Mean age at onset of therapeutic management was 40 years (range 20–62). Localized arthroscopic or open resection was performed. For the diffuse forms, symptoms had been present for 15 months on average at the first consultation. Patients sought medical care because of spontaneous hemarthrosis or diffuse knee pain with no specific signs. Mean age at onset of therapeutic management was 38 years (range 15–59). Bony lesions were observed in 20%. Synoviorthesis or surgical synovectomy were performed. Mean follow-up was 97 months (range 12–309). Outcome was analyzed separately for the localized and diffuse forms.

Results: For the localized PVNS, there were no complications after surgical treatment but the relapse rate reached 12.5%. For diffuse PVNS, the cumulative rate of relapse was 50%, recurrence being noted on average 37 months after treatment. A stiff joint developed in 14% after open synovectomy. Surgical treatment was necessary in four cases (total arthroplasty in three) seen late after development of bony lesions; the clinical outcome was good with good gain in flexion.

Discussion: MRI is essential for the topographic diagnosis and to guide surgery. For diffuse PVNS seen at an advanced stage or after several recurrences, adjuvant synoviorthesis can be useful 4 to 8 months after surgery.

Conclusion: Appropriate treatment of PVNS of the knee depends on the presentation but usually involves a surgical procedure. The risk of recurrence for diffuse PVNS warrants annual MRI for four years.