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Aneurysmal bone cyst as a rare cause of spinal cord compression in a young child

Sunny D Deo1, Jeremy C T Fairbank, James Wilson-Macdonald

  • 1Great Western Hospital, Swindon, United Kingdom.

Spine
|February 1, 2005
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a rare pediatric aneurysmal bone cyst in a 2-year-old, successfully treated with innovative spinal stabilization techniques. The 7-year follow-up demonstrates the efficacy of adapted maxillofacial implants for pediatric spinal surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Spinal Oncology
  • Pediatric Orthopedics

Background:

  • Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are rare spinal tumors in children, typically presenting in adolescence.
  • Cases below age 4 are exceptionally rare, with limited data on management strategies.
  • Standard spinal implant systems are often unsuitable for very young children.

Observation:

  • A 2-year-old girl presented with cervicothoracic spinal cord compression due to an aneurysmal bone cyst.
  • The tumor required complex anterior and posterior surgical excision and reconstruction.
  • The patient experienced transient neurological deficits and a post-operative infection and recurrence.

Findings:

  • A novel surgical technique utilizing maxillofacial implants and a fibular graft achieved spinal stabilization.
  • Despite complications, including infection and recurrence, the patient achieved a 7-year recurrence-free follow-up.
  • Adapted maxillofacial plates and titanium cables provided effective fixation in a very small spine.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the feasibility of using adapted maxillofacial implants for pediatric spinal reconstruction.
  • It provides valuable insights into managing rare pediatric spinal ABCs with cord compression.
  • The successful outcome underscores the importance of tailored surgical approaches for complex pediatric spinal conditions.
Abstract

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