Aneurysmal bone cyst of the sacrum

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are benign, expansile, osteolytic bone lesions.
• Sacral ABCs are uncommon, presenting unique diagnostic and management challenges due to anatomical location.
• These lesions can cause significant pain and neurological deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a series of five cases of sacral aneurysmal bone cysts.
• To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, and treatment outcomes.
• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical intervention for sacral ABCs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of five patients with sacral ABCs.
• Clinical data including demographics, symptoms, and physical examination findings were collected.
• Diagnostic imaging included standard radiographs, tomograms, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.
• Treatment modalities included resection and curettage.

Main Results:

• The study included three females and two males aged 11-41 years.
• Common symptoms were chronic pain, nerve root compression, and micturitional problems.
• Palpable, tender masses were present in four patients.
• Histological diagnosis was established in all cases.
• Four lesions healed after surgical treatment (resection or curettage).
• One patient had a stable, non-progressing lesion.

Conclusions:

• Sacral aneurysmal bone cysts present with significant pain and neurological symptoms.
• A combination of imaging modalities and histopathology is crucial for diagnosis.
• Surgical management, including resection and curettage, leads to favorable outcomes in most cases.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications and improving patient prognosis.