Solitary bone cyst
ICD-10 M85.4 · ICD-11 FB80.5

Treatment of Solitary Bone Cyst of the Upper Extremity with a Completely Dislocated, Unstable, Joint-Affecting, or Open Pathological Fracture

Clinical Scenario

This protocol applies to patients with a solitary bone cyst of the upper extremity who sustain a pathological fracture that is completely dislocated, involves the joint, is unstable, or is open — fracture patterns that carry a degree of structural compromise that warrants a different management course from simple or minimally displaced fractures through the cyst.

Condition-Specific Considerations

The nature of the fracture — complete dislocation, joint involvement, instability, or an open injury — is the key factor that determines the treatment pathway. These specific characteristics shift the indication firmly toward operative management. Conservative approaches are not considered adequate in this setting.

Treatment Approach

Surgical fixation using an intramedullary technique is the described treatment in this scenario, with the option of incorporating bone substitute material as part of the procedure.

Full protocol details — including complete technique criteria, sequencing, and perioperative guidance — are available via the link below.

Treatment Goals
  • Fracture consolidation
  • Absence of secondary angular or torsional deformity

References

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2021.100384

However, if the fracture is completely dislocated, joint affecting, unstable or open, surgical treatment is advisable.

In such cases, elastic intramedullary nailing was described as surgical treatment option with or without the use of bone substitute.

No relevant secondary angular or torsional deformity was observed after treatment.

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