Simple bone cyst as a sequel of forearm plate osteosynthesis

Abstract

This report presents the long-term effect of plate osteosynthesis to repair a right forearm fracture in an 11-year old patient, who 6 years later requested removal of her plates because of the pain she was experiencing in the area. The 17 year-old female had developed simple bone cysts around the implanted plates for her radius and ulnar fracture. Circulatory disturbances might have a role in the development of the simple bone cysts in this case.

Keywords: Complication; Forearm plating; Implant removal; Osteosynthesis; Simple bone cyst.

Fig. 1

Antro-posterior X-ray of the right forearm demonstrates a large simple bone cyst of the ulnar bone beneath the plate. The lesion is seen through the unscrewed hole of the plate. A cyst is also seen around the distal screw of the radial plate

Fig. 2

Histopathologic sections shows bone trabeculae, connective tissue with vascularization, hyalinized connective tissue, rare osteoclast like giant cells hemorrhage and hemosiderin deposition. (Hematoxyline-eosin stain X100)

Fig. 3

The ulnar cyst was filled with autogenous bone graft

Fig. 4

Healing of the ulnar bone lesion with complete disappearance of the cyst cavities were observed within 6 months. The radial lesion did not heal

Fig. 5

Radial lesion at surgery

Fig. 6

The radial lesion healed within 6 months