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Aneurysmal bone cyst in 29 children

Andres Rodriguez Ramírez1, Robert P Stanton

  • 1Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware, USA.

Insights

Aneurysmal bone cysts in children often recur, with a 27.5% rate observed in this study. Using a high-speed bur during treatment may help reduce recurrence of these bone lesions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Skeletal Pathology
  • Surgical Oncology

Background:

  • Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are benign, expansile, osteolytic bone lesions.
  • Pediatric ABCs present unique challenges in management and treatment due to their location and potential for growth.
  • Understanding recurrence patterns is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To longitudinally review clinical features, treatment methods, and recurrence rates of pediatric aneurysmal bone cysts.
  • To evaluate the impact of different surgical techniques on recurrence.
  • To identify factors influencing the outcomes of ABC treatment in children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 40 pediatric cases of aneurysmal bone cyst treated at a single institution.
  • Inclusion criteria: histologic confirmation and minimum 2-year follow-up for 29 patients.
  • Treatment modalities included curettage, curettage with bone grafting, and resection.

Main Results:

  • Overall recurrence rate of 27.5% (8/29 patients), with an average time to recurrence of 18.7 months.
  • The tibia was the most common site (7 cases).
  • Complications occurred in 6 cases, including physeal arrest in 3. Recurrence rates decreased with the use of a high-speed bur.

Conclusions:

  • Aneurysmal bone cysts in children have a significant recurrence rate.
  • Surgical technique, particularly the use of a high-speed bur, may influence recurrence rates.
  • Long-term follow-up is essential for managing pediatric ABCs effectively.

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