A systematic literature review of synovial chondromatosis and pigmented villonodular synovitis of the hip

Objectives: Benign synovial diseases of the hip including Synovial Chondromatosis (SC) and Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS) are devastating diseases. Initially, patients present with hip pain unrelieved by conservative measures. The diagnosis of PVNS and SC are often delayed, leading to progression of joint damage.

The purpose of this review is to present the latest on the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of SC and PVNS of the hip.

Methods: An extensive systematic search of MEDLINE and PUBMED Databases was performed. Data parameters were set from 2005 to present day with set inclusion criteria. Systematic reviews were excluded.

Results: 427 abstracts were identified, with 12 articles meeting all inclusion criteria. Eight studies focused on SC, and 5 on PVNS. 233 patients with SC of the hip and 98 patients with PVNS of the hip were identified, a total of 331 patients.

Discussion: Benign Synovial disorders of the hip are rare. In patients with chronic hip pain secondary to benign synovial disorders, early diagnosis and surgical intervention demonstrate good outcomes, and patients may benefit due to prevention of morbidity from further joint destruction. There is no clear consensus between higher successes through open versus arthroscopic surgical debridement. In the final phase of benign synovial disorders of the hip, THA of different types based on the patient’s age should be considered.