Novel Transungual Approach Using a Cement Spacer for a Recurrent Intramedullary Glomus Tumour of the Finger: A Case Report

Glomus tumours are rare benign epithelial and mesenchymal neoplasms of the glomus body, which primarily occur in the subungual area of fingers, characterized by excruciating pain, point tenderness, and cold sensitivity. Glomus tumours are also reported to be extradigital in almost every organ, which makes them difficult to diagnose due to their rarity. Delayed diagnosis commonly happens due to negative imaging from plain radiograph and ultrasound imaging. Early recognition of this disease with proper diagnosis and complete surgical excision is typically effective, leading to resolution of symptoms. Despite there is a chance of recurrence even with surgical excision in some cases, probably due to incomplete excision or the presence of another undiagnosed tumour at the beginning. We present a rare case of a recurrent intramedullary glomus tumour of the finger that persisted despite multiple surgical excisions. This case was managed using a novel transungual surgical approach, incorporating a cement spacer to provide structural support for the finger pulp following the removal of the diseased distal phalanx. We also review the surgical outcomes in this challenging scenario.