Isolated synovial chondromatosis of the ankle: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: At the age of 20, young adults are most susceptible to synovial chondromatosis, a rare condition characterized by the metaplasia of the synovial membrane into cartilaginous or osteocartilaginous tissue. Synovial chondromatosis is exceptionally uncommon in the ankle. CASE PRESENTATION: An orthopedist evaluated a 26-year-old man with a history of recurring ankle trauma over a period of 6 months, swelling and pain. An ankle radiograph revealed calcified foreign bodies, while arthrography displayed enlarged oval bodies with contrasting features and intra-articular effusion encapsulated heterogeneously. Subsequent arthroscopy, following contrast injection, revealed intra-articular contrast effusion. During the arthroscopic procedure, multiple osteochondromas were discovered. A synovectomy was performed, and pathological analysis confirmed the presence of synovial chondromatosis. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Synovial chondromatosis of the ankle is an exceptionally rare condition with only a handful of documented cases in the literature. Isolated instances of ankle synovial chondromatosis have been reported, and these cases have been managed using both open and arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopic intervention offers potential benefits such as improved joint access, reduced morbidity, and quicker rehabilitation and recovery. However, arthroscopic surgery might pose the risk of incomplete synovectomy or residual loose bodies. CONCLUSION: Synovial chondromatosis of the ankle represents a chronic and rare ailment. Arthroscopic treatment stands out as an effective and dependable solution, offering various potential advantages over open surgery. This case report is presented due to the rarity and clinical significance of the condition.