The Aneurysmal Bone Cyst - A Case Report

Introduction. The aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign bone tumor with a low incidence. Its presence within the bone of the hand is quite unusual. When it comes to its evolution, it is known to be an aggressive tumor with a progressive weakening of the bone structure. Objective. This case report aimed to present the importance of keeping the hand function intact for patients who are usually in their first decades of life. As a reconstruction method, a radical surgical approach and grafting are both mandatory for the unit to have the mobility unaltered. Material and methods. It is a case of a 15-year-old male with a giant aneurysmal bone cyst of the fifth metacarpal bone of the left hand. This tumor was surgically removed and the entire bone was rebuilt with an autologous bone graft from the iliac crest. The articular surface was preserved for the distal joint (the head of the metacarpal bone was spared). Results. The surgical procedure concluding the resection and immediate grafting reestablished the function of the hand with no infirmity, and the results for the past 7 years after surgery kept being negative for relapse and the patient had great mobility within the segment. Conclusions: The proper and correct surgical treatment of giant aneurysmal bone cyst located on the fifth metacarpal bone is the mandatory resection of the entire tumor for the high risk of pathological bone fracture with a severe impact on the mobility of the hand.