Role of Zoledronic Acid Supplementation in Reducing Post-Surgical Recurrence of Giant Cell Tumor of Bone: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

Zoledronic acid is a bisphosphonate that has recently gained interest in adjuvant therapy for giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB). It has an apoptotic effect on osteoclasts that are precursors of GCTB. However, the evidence suggesting the role of zoledronic acid in preventing GCTB recurrence is mixed, and therefore, a consensus is yet to be established. The purpose of the current meta-analysis was to analyze the impact of zoledronic acid supplementation on tumor recurrence in surgical treated GCTB. A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to identify studies that analyzed the impact of local or systemic zoledronic acid supplementation on clinical outcomes in surgically treated GCTB. The data from the comparative studies were pooled and analyzed to investigate the association of zoledronic acid supplementation with tumor recurrence. Additionally, other factors such as age, gender, soft tissue extension, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cement application, recurrent presentation, and extended curettage were also investigated for any association with tumor recurrence. Of the 271 results, 13 unique studies reported the clinical outcomes in GCTB. Seven studies compared the outcomes of zoledronic acid supplementation with control groups. Six studies presented the tumor recurrence-related data among the comparison groups. The zoledronic acid supplementation was associated with significantly lower tumor recurrence rates (p = 0.007). Additionally, a significant association of soft tissue extension and non-usage of PMMA cement with tumor recurrence were observed. The current meta-analysis suggests that zoledronic acid supplementation reduces tumor recurrence rates in surgically treated GCTB. We, therefore, recommend the use of zoledronic acid following aggressive extended curettage of the tumor. Further, well-planned randomized controlled trials will help strengthen this evidence.