Recurrent Giant Cell Tumor of the Proximal Tibia with Soft Tissue Extension treated by Extended Curettage and Phenol Cauterization: A case report

Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) is a histologically benign lesion characterized by locally aggressive behavior and a notable tendency for local recurrence, especially after intralesional surgical procedures. We describe a case involving a 34-year-old female with a recurrent giant cell tumor arising in the proximal tibia, presenting two years after primary treatment with intralesional curettage and cementation. The recurrent lesion demonstrated extensive soft tissue involvement with adherence to the adjacent knee joint capsule. Surgical management consisted of thorough extended curettage with removal of the existing cement, followed by chemical adjuvant treatment using phenol and reconstruction of the osseous defect with antibiotic-impregnated bone cement. This report highlights the complexity of treating recurrent giant cell tumors, emphasizes the clinical significance of soft tissue extension, and demonstrates that careful surgical clearance supplemented by local adjuvant therapy can achieve satisfactory local control while preserving limb function.