Aneurysmal bone cyst in the distal radius of a dog: diagnostic imaging and surgical treatment

Abstract

SummaryAn 11 month old, female Golden Retriever was examined for chronic right thoracic limb lameness and progressive swelling of the distal radius. Survey radiographs revealed an expansile, osteolytic lesion in the distal metaphyseal region of the radius consistent with an aneurismal bone cyst. Diagnostic imaging, biopsy, angiography and histopathology supported this diagnosis. The condition was treated by segmental osteotomy of the affected radius, placement of a vascularized autogenous bone graft harvested from the contralateral ulna, and stabilized using a plate that incorporated the carpal joint. The pathogenesis, diagnostic dilemmas and treatment options in dogs and human patients is discussed.