Treatment of Solitary Bone Cyst of the Upper Extremity with a Completely Dislocated, Unstable, Joint-Affecting, or Open Pathological Fracture
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.
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.
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.
- Fracture consolidation
- Absence of secondary angular or torsional deformity