PVNS

PVNS, or pigmented villonodular synovitis, is a rare, painful joint disease caused by abnormal growth of the tissue (the synovium) that lines the hip joint. The abnormal growth of this excess synovial tissue is similar to the growth of a tumor; however, this condition is usually not malignant (not cancerous). There are two types of PVNS:

• Localized (Nodular) PVNS: The disease remains in one area of the joint.
• Non-localized (Diffuse) PVNS: The diseased tissue spreads to the majority of the hip joint. Symptoms are typically more severe.

Symptoms

• Groin or outer hip pain with motion
• Stiffness in the hip
• Weakness of the muscles around the hip
• Catching or locking of the hip joint

Diagnosis And Treatment

Dr. Welch considers each patient’s symptoms, as well as a detailed physical examination, x-rays, and usually an MRI of the hip to make the diagnosis of PVNS.

Non-surgical treatment includes rest, activity modification, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and on occasion steroid or anesthetic injections. Usually PVNS requires surgical intervention to alleviate a given patient’s symptoms. During surgery, Dr. Welch introduces a camera through one incision and devices to remove the synovitis (inflamed joint lining) through other small incisions.