[Aneurysmal cyst of the bones in children]

The authors have analysed a series of aneurysmal bone cysts (A.B.C.) in children and adolescents which were reviewed at an average follow-up of 4 years 2 months (6 months-15 years). The average age at diagnosis was 8 years (3-19 years). Pathological fractures were the main reason for consultation, probably due to the predominance of central lesions. If conventional radiology remains indispensable to diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging is nevertheless the most important examination in determining the extent of the affection. The diagnosis remains anatomopathological, even if this may be difficult due to associated lesions (A.B.C. illness and A.B.C. symptoms). In long bones lesions, we observed recurrence after curettage in 3 out of 7 cases. For this reason the recommend simple resection or reconstructive resection rather than curettage whenever possible. 5 lesions in contact with growth plate were observed. In such cases we recommend its conservation by careful curettage, especially in young children. We feel that subsequent recurrence is easier to treat than an epiphysiodesis bridge. The surgical techniques employed to conserve the plate are described along with methods of bone reconstruction after surgery.