CT-guided radiofrequency ablation of painful intra-articular osteoid osteoma in children: Is there a concern for cartilage damage?

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of computed tomography-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) in the management of uncommon and technically challenging intra-articular osteoid osteoma in children. Material and methods: From December 2018 to September 2022, 16 children with intra-articular osteoid osteoma, including ten boys and six girls, were treated at two tertiary centers with percutaneous CT-guided RF ablation using a straight monopolar electrode. The procedures were carried out under general anesthesia. Post-procedural clinical outcomes and adverse events were assessed through clinical follow-up. Results: Technical success was achieved in all of the participating patients. Clinical success with relief of symptomatology throughout the period of follow-up was achieved in 100% of the patients. No persistence or recurrence of pain occurred during the follow-up period. No immediate or delayed adverse effects were observed. Conclusion: PRFA is shown to be technically feasible. Clinical improvement can be achieved with a high rate of success in the treatment of children with difficult-to-treat intra-articular osteoid osteomas.