Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis treated with arthroscopic total synovial peel

Abstract

Abstract Background: Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is prone to recurrence after surgery, and it is difficult to achieve a long-term complete cure. Objective: To reduce the recurrence rate of PVNS, the author pioneered the arthroscopic synovial peel procedure. Methods: From March 2014 to July 2020, a total of 19 patients (6 males and 13 females) with diffuse PVNS of the knee were treated in our department and underwent arthroscopic total synovial peel (ATSP). It’s ‘peel’ rather than simple excision. This method is similar to peeling bark. Relapse rates and functional scores were determined, with follow-ups ranging from 12 to 72 months, on average 36 months. Results: The results were assessed radiographically and functionally, and 2 cases (10.5%) recurred. Preoperative and postoperative functional scores were performed on patients without recurrence, and the average score increased after operation. Compared with the literature, ATSP significantly reduces the postoperative recurrence rate of diffuse PVNS. This approach was found to considerably minimize the recurrence rate of postoperative PVNS in follow-up investigations. Conclusion: This approach may be a viable option for treating diffuse PVNS via arthroscopy and is worthy of clinical consideration.