Aneurysmal bone cysts: A UK wide tumor center experience

Abstract

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesThis multicenter retrospective series of consecutive extra‐spinal aneurysmal bone cysts aims to identify risk factors for treatment failure.MethodsAneurysmal bone cysts treated within seven collaborating centers with over 12‐months follow‐up were eligible for inclusion. Survival analyses were performed to identify variables associated with recurrence using log‐rank tests and Cox proportional hazard regression.ResultsOne hundred and fifteen (M:F 60:55) patients were included. Median age at presentation was 13 years and median follow‐up was 27 months. Seventy‐five patients underwent surgical curettage and 27% of these required further intervention for recurrence. Of the 30 patients who underwent biopsy with limited percutaneous curettage as initial procedure, 47% required no further treatment. Patients under 13 years (log‐rank p = 0.006, HR 2.3, p = 0.011) and those treated who had limited curettage (log‐rank p = 0.001, HR 2.7, p = 0.002) had a higher risk of recurrence/persistence.ConclusionsThere is a high risk of recurrence following surgical treatment for aneurysmal bone cysts and this risk is higher in young patients. However, the cyst heals in a substantial number of patients who have a limited curettage at the time of biopsy.