Tell-tale of a primary and recurrent giant cell tumour of distal ulna: A report of two cases

Introduction: Wrist functionality is severely hampered by giant cell tumours (GCT) of the distal ulna, which require careful surgical treatment. A thorough preoperative evaluation and precise tumour grading are essential for developing a treatment plan that maximises functional results while maintaining oncological control. Case presentation: We present 2 cases of distal end ulna giant cell tumour (GCT). The first case involves a primary GCT in a young male, treated with marginal excision and extensor carpi ulnaris tenodesis, with no recurrence over three years. The second case describes a recurrent GCT in a middle-aged male, initially treated with curettage and bone cement in primary stage, followed by a successful marginal excision after recurrence. Discussion: Distal ulna giant cell tumours (GCTs) are uncommon, violent lesions that have a significant chance of recurring, particularly in Campanacci grade III instances. Stabilisation procedures such as ECU tendon reconstruction address post-resection issues such as discomfort, limited forearm rotation, and grip weakness, although en bloc resection is favoured to minimise recurrence. Conclusion: Both cases highlight the challenges and considerations in managing distal ulna GCTs, emphasizing that en-bloc resection may reduce recurrence rates compared to curettage in grade III Campanacci GCTs.