Arthroscopic resection of extra-articular knee osteochondroma: report of two cases

Osteochondroma is the most common benign tumor of the growing bone, usually affecting the knee joint, located extra-articularly. Solitary intra-articular osteochondroma is very rare. In the current paper, two cases of solitary extra-articular knee osteochondromas adjacent to the capsule producing pain and restriction of knee motion are described. Diagnostic evaluation is based on combination of radiography and magnetic resonance imaging. Both osteochondromas excised arthroscopically, resulting in complete symptoms relief and full range of knee motion. On follow-up, no recurrence was recorded. Based on our experience, although limited, not only the intra-articular, but also some solitary extra-articular knee osteochondromas can be successfully treated by arthroscopy, resulting in better cosmetic result, less postoperative pain and faster recovery.