Allograft replacement in giant cell tumour of the hand.

Allografts were used to replace excised bone segments affected by giant cell tumour of the hand in three patients. The tumour involved the second, third and fourth metacarpals and the capitate in one case; the first metacarpal and the trapezium in one, and the proximal phalanx of the index in one. All had histological confirmation of diagnosis. One patient had recurrence one year after marginal resection of his third metacarpal and required resection of the two adjacent metacarpals and the capitate. He had no recurrence two years after the secondary treatment. The other two had no recurrence at two and three years after their primary procedures. Their affected hands were functioning well.