AN UNUSUAL PRESENTATION OF UPPER FIBULAR OSTEOCHONDROMA IN A YOUNG GIRL

ABSTRACT Introduction An osteochondroma or exostosis is benign bone tumour consisting of an bony outgrowth covered by a cartilage cap. It commonly occurs in the metaphysis of long bones, mainly the distal femur, proximal tibia and proximal humerus. At times growth occurs within the bone instead of outburst known as enchondromata PRESENTATION OF THE CASE We describe an unusual case of posterolateral swelling in the left leg of a young female. On radiographs, it seemed to be proximal fibula osteochondroma. Intraop, we made posterolateral incision and found the tumour almost totally involving the fibular head and compressing the lateral popliteal nerve. Fortunately, the girl had normal neurology and full ankle movements both pre and postoperatively. The patient was discharged within 5 days of the operation with suture removal done after 2 weeks. The patient was allowed full weight bearing walking with no plaster application required. DISCUSSION Most osteochondromas are asymptomatic and are seen incidentally during radiographic examination. Osteochondromas are rarely localized in isolated proximal fibular region. Excision of the tumour is the most common mode of treatment modality. CONCLUSION Although most osteochondromas in children are to be treated conservatively this benign tumour was treated with surgical excision as the young girl had psychological and social issues related to her cosmetically deformed appearance.