Surgical

Surgical treatment runs a wide gamut from injections to a more extensive procedure in which a window of bone is removed to allow more aggressive removal of bone with specialized tools (curettage) followed by bone grafting.

Some of the cysts may cause such weakness of the bone that the addition of plates, screws or rods for stability may be necessary. Injection techniques typically include a small incision and two large needles that allow the surgeon to aspirate, irrigate and scrape the bone of the lining of the cyst, and then inject the cavity with a substance to fill the defect.

Open procedures, on the other hand, may require more exposure of the bone and may include removal of the cyst or tumor and the use of additional treatments such as high temperature cautery, freezing or using chemicals on the inside of the lesion to ensure that it does not re-grow.

The cyst/tumor type, its growth rate and size will all impact the non-surgical or surgical treatment plan. The surgeon develops a post-treatment protocol that is designed to allow for the body to heal and monitor for recurrence.

Ask your physician which treatment options are appropriate for you or your child.