Retrospective clinicopathological analysis of 193 cases of bone and soft tissue tumors in the foot and ankle

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological features, anatomical distribution, and treatment methods of bone and soft tissue tumors in the foot and ankle region.

Methods: This retrospective study included 193 cases evaluated at the musculoskeletal tumor board of the institution between January 2014 and December 2024. Patients’ demographic data (84 males, 109 females; mean age, 37.8 years), lesion type, anatomical location, histopathological subtype, and treatment modalities were recorded. Tumors were classified according to the 2020 World Health Organization classification of bone and soft tissue tumors.

Results: Of the 193 cases, 128 (66.3%) were true tumors and 65 (33.7%) were tumor-like lesions. Among the tumors, 70 (54.7%) were bone tumors, 54 (42.2%) were soft tissue tumors, and 4 (3.1%) were metastases. Benign lesions accounted for 79.7%, malignant for 14.0%, and intermediate for 6.3% of all tumors. Tumors were most frequently located in the forefoot (44%), followed by the ankle (29%). Intraosseous lipoma was the most common benign bone tumor, giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath the most common benign soft tissue tumor, and ganglion cyst the most frequent tumor-like lesion. Excisional biopsy was the main treatment, whereas amputation was mainly performed for malignant tumors.

Conclusion: Foot and ankle tumors are rare but clinically significant as misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can lead to poor outcomes. Although most are benign, malignant cases, especially in the ankle region, require aggressive management. Awareness of their regional distribution and histopathological spectrum is essential for early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment planning.

Cite this article as: Yıldırım S, Çiftdemir M, Salih O, Ustabaşıoğlu FE, Üstün F, Usta U. Retrospective clinicopathological analysis of 193 cases of bone and soft tissue tumors in the foot and ankle. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc., 2025;59(6):485-492.