Resection and Reconstruction is the Procedure of Choice for Giant Cell Lesions of Small Bones: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract Background: Giant cell lesion of small bones (GCLSB), also known as giant cell reparative granuloma, is a rare tumor-like condition occurring in the small bones of the hands and feet. GCLSB lacks specific clinical, radiological, and histological manifestations. There are no standardized protocols for treatment. Case presentation: Here, we report a 16-year-old male with recurrent GCLSB in the proximal phalanx of the left thumb. The lesion was successfully resected with bone grafting. Conclusions: We summarized the characteristics of 33 reported cases of GCLSB from 1983 to date, including gender, age, lesion sites, recurrence, and treatment. We conclude that resection and reconstruction with curettage is the treatment of choice.