A Case of Chondroblastoma in the Medial Condyle of the Femur Treated With an Intra-Articular Approach via the Intercondylar Fossa.

Abstract

Adequate bone curettage is crucial for treating epiphyseal chondroblastomas. However, achieving adequate curettage while minimizing damage to the articular cartilage is challenging. For lesions at the center of the distal femoral epiphysis, curettage using an intercondylar approach may have better oncological and functional outcomes than the conventional extra-articular approach from the wall of the epiphysis. We herein present a case of a 22-year-old male patient with a chondroblastoma of the femoral medial condyle close to the intercondylar fossa. Intercondylar curettage was performed at the site of the insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Maximal knee flexion allowed for good exposure of the lesion, and a direct approach to the tumor led to adequate curettage. Careful suturing of the PCL and postoperative care resulted in sufficient joint stability. The patient showed no signs of local recurrence or osteoarthritic changes at his 16-month follow-up. The intercondylar approach could be a surgical technique worth considering for the treatment of chondroblastoma in the distal femoral epiphysis, particularly for lesions located near the intercondylar fossa.