1Junior Resident, Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India
2Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India
3Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India
Background: Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumor, typically arising from the metaphysis of long bones. While the distal femur and proximal tibia are common sites, distal fibula is rarely affected. Retrofibular osteochondromas are uncommon and may cause compression or instability of adjacent peroneal tendons, causing mechanical symptoms such as snapping, subluxation, or pain.
Case Presentation: We present the case of a 14-year-old female with a gradually progressive swelling over the lateral aspect of left ankle for two years, associated with pain during prolonged ambulation. Clinical examination revealed a firm, immobile swelling superior to the lateral malleolus with a positive peroneal stress test. Radiographs and MRI demonstrated a retrofibular osteochondroma arising from the distal fibular metaphysis, with associated peroneal tendon displacement and tendinitis. The patient underwent complete surgical excision of lesion & retinacular repair. Histopathology confirmed osteochondroma. At six-month follow-up, she was asymptomatic with full ankle motion and no recurrence.
Conclusion: Retrofibular osteochondroma causing peroneal tendon subluxation is rare but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lateral ankle pain in adolescents. Early recognition and surgical management prevent chronic tendon injury and yield excellent functional outcomes.
Keywords: Osteochondroma, distal fibula, peroneal tendon subluxation, ankle tumor, benign bone lesion.
How to cite this article: Akilan MTP, Reddy VN, Rosario MP. A Twisted Turn: Retrofibular Osteochondroma with Peroneal Tendon Subluxation — A Rare Case Report. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(3): 194-199. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.3.24
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None