Giant cell tumor of bone (GCT-B) affecting the extremities at Campanacci stage 1 or stage 2 is a locally aggressive lesion for which joint preservation and restoration of good postoperative function are central treatment objectives.
At stages 1 and 2, the tumor is contained or minimally extends beyond the cortex. Curettage is the recommended strategy at these stages, prioritising preservation of the adjacent joint and optimising functional recovery. Follow-up surveillance to detect local recurrence is an integral part of management.
In the setting of local recurrence, both surgical and minimally invasive options exist. The choice between approaches depends on lesion characteristics and clinical circumstances. The complete structured protocol — including the full algorithm, indications for each option, and sequencing — is available via the link below.
DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31040157
For Campanacci stages 1 and 2, curettage is recommended to preserve the joints and to achieve good postoperative function.
For local recurrence, re-curettage may be used when feasible.
Minimally invasive RFA is an option for the initial treatment of small recurrent lesions detected during follow-up after curettage, prior to repeat curettage.
View source ↗