A 17-year-old student regains mobility after complex surgery for a rare 10 cm tumor on the right thigh

Chennai, 30 June 2025: MGM Malar has successfully performed a rare and complex orthopedic procedure on 17-year-old, who was suffering from a large benign bone tumor known as osteochondroma. The Class 12 student had been dealing with a progressively enlarging swelling and pain in his right knee region for over a year. Investigations revealed a 10 cm tumor arising from the distal femur—an unusually large presentation in adolescents—prompting a meticulously planned two-hour elective excision. The patient made a remarkable recovery, was discharged the next day, and has since resumed daily activities independently.

Osteochondroma, also referred to as exostosis, is a benign bone tumor that typically appears in young individuals. Though often asymptomatic, tumors of significant size can cause pain, mechanical limitations, or even malignant transformation if untreated. Considering the tumor’s dimensions and the risk posed by its thick cartilage cap, surgical intervention was deemed necessary. Histopathological analysis confirmed the tumor was benign with clear margins, and the patient will be monitored every six months for the next two years.

The complexity of the case stemmed from the tumor’s proximity to major neurovascular structures, requiring precision dissection to ensure safe and complete removal. The raw bone area was sealed using bone wax to control bleeding, and utmost care was taken to excise the tumor leaving no residual tissue that could contribute to recurrence.

Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy, Senior Consultant – Orthopaedics, MGM Malar said, “This was a rare case due to the sheer size and location of the tumor. Osteochondromas are common in adolescents but rarely grow this large without causing functional problems. The proximity to major blood vessels and nerves made complete removal without complications extremely challenging. With proper planning and surgical precision, we were able to achieve a complete excision and give this young boy back his normal, active life.”

Osteochondromas occur in approximately one in 50,000 individuals, more commonly in adolescent males, and are often associated with growth plate abnormalities or genetic predispositions. This case underscores the need for timely diagnosis and expert care in managing bone tumors before they result in more serious complications.