ANEURYSMAL BONE CYST
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Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
An aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) consists of a blood-filled benign and expansive lesion that is characterized by a fluid-filled cavity within a bone. It is most commonly found in the long bones of the body, such as the femur and tibia, but can also occur in the spine and other bones. Treatment options include surgical excision or curettage (removal of the cyst with a spoon-shaped surgical instrument) and bone grafting. In some cases, doctors will just observe the cyst.
Who gets an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst?
Doctors find aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) as relatively rare, accounting for less than 5% of benign bone tumors. They occur more frequently in children and young adults, with the majority of cases being diagnosed before the age of 30. Boys are more frequently affected than girls. It’s not known exactly what causes ABCs. Some researchers believe that they develop from a blood vessel that ruptures within the bone, leading to a cyst formation. Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of ABCs. It is important to note that ABCs are benign tumors and are not cancerous. They do not spread to other parts of the body. However, they can cause damage to the surrounding bone if left untreated.
Where are most Aneurysmal Bone Cysts Found?
Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are commonly found in the long bones of the body, such as the femur and tibia. They can also occur in the vertebral column, pelvis, skull, and other bones. In long bones, the ABCs are found in the metaphysis, which is the growing part of the bone, near the epiphyseal plate (the area where the bone grows in length). In the vertebral column, the ABCs are found in the back part of the the vertebral body.
Symptoms of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
The symptoms of an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) can vary depending on the size and location of the cyst. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: The cyst may cause pain or discomfort in the affected bone, especially when located near a joint.
- Swelling: The cyst may cause a visible bump or swelling in the affected area.
- Fracture: ABCs can weaken the bone leading to fractures.
- Limb length discrepancy: The cyst can cause a limb length discrepancy when located in the long bones of the body.
- Neurological symptoms: When the cyst occurs in the spine, it may cause neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
It’s important to note that some people may have an ABC without any symptoms at all. These cysts are often discovered by chance during an x-ray or scan for an unrelated issue.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What is an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst?
An Aneurysmal Bone Cyst (ABC) identifies as a benign and locally aggressive bone tumor that typically occurs in children and young adults. Although a non-cancerous lesion, it can develop in various bones, and it commonly affects the long bones, spine, and pelvis. ABCs normally contain blood-filled spaces within the bone, causing the expansion and weakening of the affected area.
What are the symptoms of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst?
The symptoms of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst may vary depending on the location and size of the lesion. Common signs include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected bone. The cyst’s expansion can weaken the bone, leading to an increased risk of fractures. In some cases, pressure on nearby structures or nerves can cause neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness.
How is an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst Treated?
The treatment approach for an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst depends on various factors, such as the size, location, and aggressiveness of the lesion, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. Small and asymptomatic ABCs may not require treatment and doctors can monitor it with regular imaging. However, for larger or symptomatic cysts, treatment options include surgical intervention, embolization (a procedure to block the blood supply to the cyst), or a combination of both. Surgery aims to remove the cyst and stabilize the affected bone, often with bone grafts or other reconstructive techniques. Regular follow-up becomes essential to monitor the condition’s progress and ensure appropriate management.
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The Treatment for an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
The treatment for an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) depends on the size and location of the cyst. It also includes the patient’s age and overall health. Treatment options include:
- Surgical Excision: This appears as the most common treatment for ABCs. The surgeon removes the cyst along with a surrounding margin of healthy bone. This procedure occurs in conjunction with a bone graft. The bone graft helps to fill the hole left by the removal of the cyst and promotes healing.
- Curettage: This procedure involves the removal of the cyst with a spoon-shaped surgical instrument (curette). This is often done in combination with bone grafting that fills the void created by the removal of the cyst
- Observation: If the cyst appears small and does not cause any symptoms, your doctor may recommend observation without treatment.
- Radiotherapy: In some cases, Radiotherapy can shrink the cyst and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy refers to a procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells. Cryotherapy can treat these cysts using liquid nitrogen.
It’s important to note that the treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts depends on each individual. However, the best option will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s age, the size and location of the cyst, and the patient’s overall health. Our orthopedic surgeon will provide you with the best advice based on your case.
How Long does it Take to Recuperate from the Removal of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst?
Recovery time after the removal of an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the size and location of the cyst, the patient’s overall health, and the type of surgery performed. If the cyst is located in a long bone such as the femur or tibia, the patient may need to use crutches or a brace to protect the affected limb during the healing process. Physical therapy will regain strength and range of motion in the affected limb. Recovery time can vary from several weeks to several months.
If the cyst is located in the spine, the recovery time will depend on the extent of the surgery. In this case, the patient may need to wear a brace to support the spine during the healing process. Recovery time can take several weeks to several months. It’s important to note that recovery time can vary from person to person. Nevertheless, patients should follow their surgeon’s advice and guidelines for post-surgery care and follow-up.
Why should a Person with an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst come to the Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists?
Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists is a specialized center that offers comprehensive care for children and adolescents with aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) and other bone tumors. There are several reasons why patients with ABCs should consider coming to this center:
- Expertise: The team at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists includes specialists with extensive experience in treating ABCs and other bone tumors in children and adolescents. They are familiar with the latest treatment options and have access to the latest technology.
- Multidisciplinary approach: The team of specialists at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists works together to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the patient’s condition. They work closely with other specialists such as radiologists, physical therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.
- Experience with children and adolescents: Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists are experienced in treating children and adolescents, as a cyst can affect the growth plates.
- Experience in the latest surgical techniques: The center is familiar with the latest surgical techniques for treating ABCs such as minimally invasive surgical procedures, which can lead to faster recovery times and less pain for the patient.
- Follow-up care: The center provides follow-up care to ensure that the patient is recovering well and to monitor for any recurrence of the cyst.
Conclusion
Overall, Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists is a specialized center, with offices in Arlington, Dallas, Frisco, and McKinney, Texas, that offers comprehensive care for children and young adults with aneurysmal bone cysts and other bone tumors. We provide the expertise, multidisciplinary approach, and experience that can make a difference in a child’s medical condition or illness outcome. We welcome new patients and invite you to call our office and make an appointment for your child.
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Footnote:
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