Name of the Procedure:

Excision or Curettage of Bone Cyst or Benign Tumor of Carpal Bones with Allograft

• Common Names: Bone Cyst/Tumor Removal, Allograft Surgery
• Technical Term: Carpal Bone Cyst/Tumor Curettage with Allograft

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal (excision) or scraping out (curettage) of a non-cancerous bone cyst or tumor in the carpal bones (the small bones in the wrist), followed by filling the cavity with an allograft, which is a bone graft taken from a donor.

Purpose

• Addressed Condition: Bone cysts or benign (non-cancerous) tumors in the carpal bones that may cause pain, swelling, or risk of fracture.
• Goals: Remove the cyst or tumor, provide structural support using an allograft to promote proper healing, prevent recurrence, and restore normal function and strength to the wrist.

Indications

• Persistent pain in the wrist
• Swelling or a visible lump in the carpal bones
• Risk of fracture or weakened wrist bones
• Limitation in wrist movement
• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI) confirming the presence of a bone cyst or benign tumor

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery; adjust or stop certain medications as advised by your doctor.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI), and possibly a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia to keep you asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected area of the wrist.
3. Excision/Curettage: The surgeon removes the cyst or tumor using special surgical tools.
4. Allograft Placement: The cavity left by the removal is filled with an allograft (donor bone tissue) to support healing and maintain bone strength.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples and covered with a sterile dressing.
6. Post-procedure Imaging: X-ray to verify proper placement of the allograft.

Duration

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

Setting

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

Personnel

• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Nurses
• Surgical Technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Pain, swelling, infection at the surgical site, bleeding, or blood clots.
• Rare Risks: Recurrent cyst/tumor, nerve damage, allergic reaction to anesthesia, graft rejection, delayed wound healing.

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Restoration of normal wrist function and strength
• Prevention of future fractures or complications
• Enhanced quality of life
• Benefits typically realized within a few weeks to months post-surgery.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Pain management with prescribed medications, keeping the wrist elevated, and wearing a splint or cast as advised.
• Recovery Time: Several weeks to a few months, with activity restrictions.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ups and imaging to monitor healing and graft integration.

Alternatives

• Watchful Waiting: Monitoring the cyst or tumor if asymptomatic.
• Non-surgical Treatments: Physical therapy or medication for pain management.
• Other Surgical Options: Simple excision without graft, or using an autograft (patient's own tissue).
• Pros/Cons: Non-surgical options may not resolve the condition but have fewer risks. Surgical alternatives depend on the specific case and patient health.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: The patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything.
• After the Procedure: Expect some sore pain managed with medications; some discomfort and limited mobility are normal initially.
• Pain Management: Oral pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed. Given instructions for incision care and activity restrictions for optimal recovery.