Aneurysmal Bone
Cyst
Aneurysmal Bone Cysts are benign aggressive tumors that destroy bone. They most commonly affect the spine and growth plates of the femur and tibia.
Aneurysmal Bone Cysts are benign aggressive tumors that destroy bone. They most commonly affect the spine and growth plates of the femur and tibia.
An aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign yet aggressive bone tumor or neoplasm. It consists of a blood-filled cavity with a thick outer lining. If this tumor is not removed, it will continue to grow, destroying the bone and adjacent joint. However, it will not spread to other parts of the body.
Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are benign aggressive tumors that, if left unchecked, will grow and destroy your normal bone. Clinically, local pain and swelling may be the first signs of a growing ABC. As the tumor grows, the bone is weakened and you are at an increased risk of breaking the bone due to the tumor (called a pathological fracture), which is often the first sign of an ABC.
Radiographic imaging is used to help form a diagnosis of ABC. These include X-Ray, MRI, CT and Bone Scans.
An example of an ABC X-Ray (Figure 1A) and an MRI (Figure 1B) with fluid fluid levels are shown.
Intralesional Curettage means to scoop the tumor out using a spoon-like tool called a curette. This is a surgery that aims to remove the mass and restore the bone so that the patient can get back to normal function. The ABC is identified within the bone and scooped, or curetted, out. The cavity is then shaved down with a Midas Rex Drill, which is similar to a dental drill. This drill removes more tumor cells.
The empty bone cavity is usually filled with bone graft or bone cement. Bone can be donated (allograft) or taken from the patient themselves (autograft). Fixation devices, such as a plate and screws, may be used in specific situations to prevent postoperative fracture. This example of an X-ray shows the bone graft filled in nicely. It looks particulate. In this case, the patient was placed in a cast to protect from fracture and allow the graft to heal.
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Myself and my amazing team are dedicated to saving your life and your limb. Losing a limb because of a tumor can be a terrifying experience. But, it does not have to be the only option. I’ve spent 20+ years as a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Orthopedic Oncologist.
I’ve devoted my career to helping children and adults afflicted with bone and soft tissue masses by performing complex limb saving surgeries. Most patients can have their limb saved, which may require innovative techniques.
Patients afflicted with musculoskeletal tumors have complex conditions that are best taken care of at large hospitals. I am the Chairman of Orthopedics and Chief of Orthopedic Oncology at Morristown Medical Center. My philosophy is a multidisciplinary team approach, working together to tailor treatment to individual patients. Education and research are essential to my practice, providing the best setting for extraordinary patient care. Because of this, we have some of the top results in the country.
