Partial sternectomy with reconstruction of a giant cell tumor of the sternum, a case report, Saudi, Arabia

Abstract

Background: Giant cell tumor (GCT) is a relatively common and locally aggressive benign bone tumor that rarely affects the sternum.

Case presentation: We report a case of giant cell tumor of the sternum in a 28-year-old Saudi with painful swelling at the lower part of the sternum. Subtotal sternectomy and reconstruction with a neosternum using two layers of proline mesh, a methyl methacrylate prosthesis, and bilateral pectoralis muscle advancement flaps were performed.

Conclusions: Giant cell tumor of the sternum is a rare diagnosis. Surgical resection with negative margins is the ideal management. To avoid defects or instability of the chest wall, reconstruction of the chest wall with neosternum should be considered.

Keywords: Giant cell tumors; Sternum; Subtotal sternectomy.