Abstract
BACKGROUND: Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a benign lesion characterized by an increased fibrous component in the bone marrow, presence of bone-like structures within the medullary cavity, and a surrounding sclerotic bone rim. Reports on OO located in the posterior proximal tibia are rare. CASE SUMMARY: Herein, we report the case of an 18-year-old male, admitted for the evaluation of right knee pain. The right knee pain had started 6 months prior without any apparent cause, which was notably severe at night, affecting sleep, and was exacerbated while climbing stairs or bearing weight. The patient also experienced pain on flexion. Three-dimensional computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a nodular lesion beneath the cortical bone of the posterior medial plateau of the right tibia and an abnormal signal focus on the posterior lateral aspect of the right tibial plateau associated with extensive bone marrow edema. A small amount of fluid was present in the right knee joint capsule. The patient subsequently underwent arthroscopic excision of the OO. Postoperatively, there was significant relief of pain, and the knee range of motion returned to normal. CONCLUSION: Although OO in the posterior proximal tibia is a rare occurrence, it can be effectively excised through minimally invasive arthroscopic visualization.