Osteochondroma of Neck of Femur- A Case Report

Osteochondromas are benign tumors containing both bone and cartilage, usually occurring near the end of a long bone. Osteochondromas of the femoral neck are somewhat atypical and rare. They are usually asymptomatic. We present a rare case report of femoro acetabular impingement, the cause being osteochondroma of neck of femur. A 44 year old male presented with complaints of pain left hip for three months and inability to lie down flat on bed. Examination revealed restriction of extension, abduction and external rotation of left hip. No other palpable masses in the body. Radiograph revealed a fluffy pedunculated mass arising from femoral neck. CT scan showed the precise location and extent of the mass. Through posterior approach to hip, mass was removed and intraop full range of movements achieved. Femoral neck was intact. Excised specimen sent for Histopathology examination. Patient was symptom free from immediate post operative period. Histopathology report came as Osteochondroma confirming our clinical diagnosis. Full weight bearing was started immediately. Patient explained about possibility of recurrence as tumour was removed piecemeal. A rare possibility of osteochondroma of neck of femur should be included in the differential diagnosis of femoro acetabular impimgement. Although rare after skeletal maturity, this possibility should be thought of even in adults. Histopathological confirmation is mandatory to rule out secondary chondrosarcoma in these lesions.