Outcome analysis of solitary osteochondromas of femur managed surgically: a series of 32 patients

Background: Osteochondroma is the commonest benign bone tumor in humans. This tumor may either be solitary or present as multiple lesions. Solitary osteochondromas are much more common. Femur is the single most common long bone involved followed by tibia and humerus. Osteochondromas may be either asymptomatic or may present as pain, pressure symptoms or functional impairment. Most of the symptomatic lesions need surgical excision.Methods: This was a prospective study which included 32 patients with solitary osteochondromas of femur, who were managed with surgical excision. Only the symptomatic cases were operated. Minimum follow-up period was 18 months after surgery.Results: This study involved 23 males (71.87%) and nine females (28.12%). 30 osteochondromas (93.75%) were located in the distal femoral metaphysis while as only two cases (6.25%) of proximal metaphyseal involvement were seen. The commonest indication for surgery was pain. Other indications included cosmetic causes, restricted joint movement, fracture of osteochondroma and paresthesia or numbness. The complications included post-operative hematoma formation which was seen in 2 patients (6.25%), infection which was seen in one patient (3.12%), post-operative hypoaesthesia in 2 patients (6.25%) and recurrence of the tumor occurred in one patient (3.12%).Conclusions: Surgical excision of the solitary symptomatic femoral osteochondromas is a rewarding and safe procedure with minimal complications.