Retrospective review of outcome after surgical treatment of enchondromas in the hand.

BACKGROUND: Tumours of the skeleton of the hand are rare. While the majority of bone tumours are benign (89.4%), a small number show signs of malignancy (4.4%). Among the benign bone tumours of the skeleton of the hand, enchondromas are the most common, at 35-65%.

METHODS: In the period from 1998 to 2005, a total of 35 enchondromas on the hand were diagnosed at the Trauma Center Lorenz Boehler. These were 16 women and 19 men with an average age of 36 years (age range 16-66). The most common site of an enchondroma was the proximal phalanx in 17 cases, followed by the metacarpal bone in 8 cases and the middle phalanx in 5 cases. In five patients, an enchondroma was found in the carpal bones. Twenty-nine patients underwent surgery.

RESULTS: The follow-up findings (average follow-up time, 47 months) were assessed in accordance with the formula outlined by Wilhelm and Feldmaier. Twenty-five of 27 patients who underwent follow-up examination showed an excellent result. In two patients, the result was assessed as good on account of restricted mobility caused by increased scar formation. No recurrence was detected in X-ray controls.

CONCLUSION: Enchondromas of the hand are usually detected after a bagatelle trauma. For accurate diagnosis, conventional X-ray examination and if necessary, a contrast medium MRI should be performed. Histological investigation is compulsory due to the risk of malignancy. Depending on its spread, the defect in the extirpation cavity should be filled with autogenous spongy bone.