Computed tomography-guided endoscopic removal of an osteoid osteoma from the femur

The case of a 19-year-old male patient who complained of dull pain in his r ight knee for more than 18 months and was finally diagnosed with intracorti cal osteoid osteoma in the femoral diaphysis is presented. A new operative method was used to locate and remove the tumor. Under spinal anesthesia wit h the patient in the prone position, a lateral and a posterior approach wer e marked with special bone cutting tubes under computed tomographic control . The usual arthroscopic instruments (punch, retrograde suction stamp) were used to remove the nidus under arthroscopic visualization, thereby avoidin g the disadvantages of open excisions, such as large incisions, bone loss, long hospitalization, and risk of infection. The advantages and disadvantag es are thoroughly discussed and compared with conventional surgical procedu res.