Biological Reconstruction of Knee Joint by Pedicled Patellar Transplant in a Recurrent Giant-cell Tumor of Lateral Femoral Condyle: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: Giant-cell tumors (GCTs) are benign tumors of musculoskeletal system, commonly occur around knee. High-grade GCTs have a high tendency to recur after intralesional curettage. Reconstruction of joint after excision of such aggressive juxta-articular GCT has been challenging task. We describe a case of recurrence in GCT of lateral femoral condyle managed with tumor excision and pedicled patellar transplant to reconstruct the joint. CASE REPORT: A 25-year-old male patient reported to us after 22 months after he had undergone curettage and bone grafting for GCT of lateral femoral condyle of his right knee with recurrence of primary tumor. After tumor resection, we restored the lost articular surface with musculovascular pedicled patella and managed dead space with corticocancellous bone graft and fibular strut. 2-year follow-up exhibited good functional outcome without any sign of recurrence. CONCLUSION: Biological reconstruction with patellar transplant can be a good option for young patients in whom endoprosthesis placement poses significant concerns about longevity, cost, and revision surgeries.