Aneurysmal Bone Cyst In Metacarpal of a Child

Aneurysmal bone cyst is a rare, rapidly growing, and destructive benign bone tumor that rarely involves the bones of the hand. Various treatment options for aneurysmal bone cyst have been reported in the literature, but controversy exists regarding optimal treatment.

A six year old boy presented with a history of pain and local swelling over his third metacarpal of five months' duration. Physical and radiographic examination of the hand was consistent with aneurysmal bone cyst. After biopsy, pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of aneurysmal bone cyst. En- block resection of the tumor and autologous fibular strut graft fixation with Kirschner wires was performed. The hand was immobilized in a short arm cast for three weeks; after the patient received three weeks of physiotherapy, the kirschner wires were removed six weeks postoperatively. Excellent clinical and functional results were obtained with no recurrence after two years of follow-up with en-block resection and reconstruction by autologous graft.

Aneurysmal bone cyst in third metacarpal of child of age six is rare entity and decision making for management poses difficulties. Our experience with En-block resection of tumor and autologus fibular sturt grafting was quite satisfactory with excellent clinical result, and we recommend this is as one modality of treatment of ABC in metacarpal of child.