Flexible but stable intramedullary nailing for unicameral bone cysts of the humerus in juveniles.

Objective: Prevention of fracture and healing of bone cysts in juveniles as well as stabilization and healing of pathologic fractures maintaining anatomic alignment. Preservation or restoration of function of upper limb. Indications: Unicameral bone cysts of the humerus in adolescents with or without pathologic fracture. Contraindications: Other bone tumors. Uncertain imaging results not allowing an unambiguous diagnosis of a bone cyst. Surgical Technique: Percutaneous biopsy and frozen section. Intramedullary introduction of Ender nails under fluoroscopy from distal to proximal taking care not to violate the growth plate. Postoperative Care: Clinical and radiographic follow-up examination every 6-12 months. Results: 21 patients operated between 1989 and 1997 were followed up for an average of 58.5 (25-105) months. A healing was observed in 20 patients (95%) after 3-96 (average 32) months. No refracture occurred during the postoperative period. One child suffered a recurrence of the bone cyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]