Giant cell tumors in the patellar tendon area.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath is a benign tumor typically presenting as a nontender mass around the hand and wrist. Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath in large joints is typically larger and shows higher rates of local recurrence, as well as common features with pigmented villonodular synovitis. We describe two cases of giant cell tumors in the patellar tendon area that were treated successfully with arthroscopically assisted complete excision. Orthopedic surgeons must be aware of this entity to prevent unnecessary adjuvant therapy or recurrent excision.