Name of the Procedure:

Excision or Curettage of Bone Cyst or Benign Tumor, Humerus; with Allograft
Common names: Bone cyst removal, benign bone tumor curettage, humerus cyst excision.

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal (excision) or scraping out (curettage) of a non-cancerous bone cyst or tumor located in the humerus (upper arm bone). An allograft—bone tissue from a donor—is used to help heal and fill the void left after the cyst or tumor is removed.

Purpose

The procedure addresses non-cancerous bone cysts or tumors that can weaken the bone, causing pain or increasing the risk of fractures. The goal is to remove the abnormal growth, promote bone healing, restore bone strength, and alleviate symptoms.

Indications

• Persistent pain in the humerus.
• Fracture due to a bone cyst or tumor.
• Weakening of the humerus.
• Radiologic evidence of a growing cyst or benign tumor.
• Loss of function or mobility in the affected arm.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before surgery.
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the surgeon.
• Preoperative imaging tests (X-rays, MRI) to evaluate the cyst or tumor.
• Blood tests and health assessments to ensure patient readiness for surgery.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Administered general anesthesia to ensure the patient is unconscious and pain-free.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the humerus at the site of the cyst or tumor.
3. Excision/Curettage: The surgeon carefully removes or scrapes out the cyst or benign tumor from the bone.
4. Allograft: Donor bone tissue is inserted to fill the space left by the removed cyst or tumor, aiding in the bone's natural healing.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples and bandaged.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the cyst or tumor.

Setting

It is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurse
• Operating room technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgery site
• Bleeding or blood clot formation
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Reoccurrence of the cyst or tumor
• Graft rejection or failure
• Fracture during the procedure
• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves

Benefits

• Alleviation of pain and discomfort.
• Restoration of bone strength and function.
• Reduced risk of fracture.
• Improved arm mobility and overall quality of life. Benefits are typically realized within a few weeks to months following the procedure.

Recovery

• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Instructions on wound care and hygiene.
• Gradual return to normal activities; avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to restore full arm function.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring healing.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring (if asymptomatic and not growing).
• Non-surgical options like physical therapy.
• Bone grafting without excision (in less severe cases). Comparison: Surgery provides a definitive solution, but non-surgical options may involve continued symptoms or ongoing monitoring.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience discomfort but will be under anesthesia during surgery.
• Post-procedure pain is managed with medications.
• Some swelling and bruising are expected.
• Complete recovery and a return to normal activities can take several weeks.