Iatrogenic Seeding of a Giant Cell Tumor of the Patella to the Proximal Tibia

Iatrogenic transplantation of tumor is a rare but avoidable complication, often resulting in additional morbidity or even mortality. We present a case of a 22-year-old woman with a giant cell tumor of the patella initially treated by curettage and bone grafting from the ipsilateral proximal tibia. Local recurrence and tumor growth in the proximal tibia required extensive surgeries. We will discuss the risk of iatrogenic metastasis by direct implantation, often attributable to inadequate surgical planning or poor surgical techniques. The cause and prevention of implantation metastasis are discussed and the basic principles of musculoskeletal tumor management emphasized.