Can Extended Curettage Alone Be Sufficient for Treating An Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in The Upper Extremity?

Document Type : Original Article

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Abstract

Background: Different treatment options for aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs), which have a high risk of recurrence, are discussed. The choice of the treatment approach for patients with ABCs is based on the likelihood of recurrence and any potential side effects. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the outcome of extended curettage alone as a method of treatment for patients with ABCs of the upper extremity.
Patients and Methods: From April 2013 to June 2021, 15 primary ABCs in the upper extremity (15 patients) were diagnosed and managed at the Orthopedic Oncology Unit, Zagazig University Hospital. The patients were 9 males and 6 females. The mean age was 13.2 ± 1.6 years (range, 7 years 5 months to 18 years 2 months). ABCs were present in the proximal humerus in 7 cases, distal humerus in 3 cases, radius in 3 cases, glenoid in one case, and distal phalanx of the thumb in one case. All patients were managed by extended curettage and followed up for at least one year.
Results: All lesions healed after a mean period of 16 weeks (range 10–21 weeks). The time to healing was related to the age of patients, size, and behavior of the lesion. Superficial infection was seen in one patient and was managed conservatively.  Recurrence developed in one patient at 9 months postoperatively and was managed by repeated extended curettage. There was only one patient who developed a shortening of the humerus of about 1.5 cm due to premature fusion of the proximal humeral epiphysis but without angular deformity.
Conclusion: Extended curettage with high-speed burr is considered an effective technique in the management of ABCs in the upper extremity.
 

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The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine
Volume 90, Issue 2
January 2023
Pages 2446-2450

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