Preoperative Embolisation in Benign Bone Tumour Excision

Abstract

Purpose. To assess the role of preoperative embolisation in benign bone tumour excision. Methods. 3 men and 3 women aged 19 to 35 (mean 23) years with either a giant cell tumour or an aneurysmal bone cyst in limb girdle sites underwent preoperative embolisation a day prior to wide local excision by the same surgeon. Tumour size, blood loss, wound healing, infection, and tumour recurrence were assessed. Results. The mean total blood loss was 391 (range, 100–980) ml. No blood transfusion was needed. No patient had any surgery- or embolisation-associated complication. No tumour recurred within a minimum 5-year follow-up. All patients had satisfactory limb function. Conclusion. Preoperative embolisation is useful in the management of vascular and aggressive bone tumours located at limb girdle sites where a tourniquet cannot be used.