Name of the Procedure:

Excision or Curettage of Bone Cyst or Benign Tumor of Radius or Ulna

Summary

Excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor involves surgically removing abnormal growths from the long bones of the forearm, specifically the radius or ulna. This procedure aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications from these non-cancerous growths.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of bone cysts or benign tumors that can cause pain, swelling, or weakening of the bones. The primary goal is to remove the abnormal growth, alleviate symptoms, and prevent potential fractures or other complications.

Indications

• Persistent pain in the forearm
• Swelling or noticeable lump in the radius or ulna
• Weakening of the bone
• Diagnostic imaging showing a bone cyst or benign tumor
• No improvement with non-surgical treatments

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for a specified number of hours before the procedure.
• Stop certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Undergo blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans), and possibly a biopsy.
• Discuss medical history and allergies with the healthcare team.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered anesthesia (usually general anesthesia).
2. A surgical incision is made near the affected area of the radius or ulna.
3. The surgeon identifies and isolates the cyst or tumor.
4. The abnormal growth is carefully excised or curettaged (scraped out) from the bone.
5. The surgical site is cleaned, and any necessary reconstruction or bone grafting may be performed.
6. The incision is closed with sutures or staples and covered with a sterile dressing.

Duration

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

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or at an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Surgical technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves
• Recurrence of the cyst or tumor
• Fracture of the bone
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief of pain and discomfort
• Prevention of bone fractures
• Improved functionality and mobility of the forearm
• Reducing the risk of complications associated with bone cysts or tumors

Recovery

• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Keep the surgical site clean and dry
• Follow the surgeon’s instructions on activity restrictions
• Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence

Alternatives

• Observation with regular monitoring if the cyst or tumor is asymptomatic
• Non-surgical treatments like aspiration or injection of steroids
• Radiofrequency ablation for certain types of bone lesions
• Pros and cons:
  • Non-surgical treatments may be less invasive but often less effective.
  • Radiofrequency ablation is less invasive but may not be suitable for all types of bone lesions.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain. After surgery, the patient may experience discomfort and soreness in the affected area, managed with pain medications. Rest and limited use of the affected arm will be necessary for proper healing. Physical therapy may be part of the recovery plan to regain full function.