Sclerotherapy with polidocanol for treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts

Abstract

Background and purpose Recent data suggest that percutaneous sclerotherapy is a safe alternative to surgery for treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs). We present our experience of this method. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data from 38 consecutive patients treated with repeated injections of polidocanol. Each injection consisted of 2-4 mg polidocanol per kg body weight. Radiological and clinical assessments were performed until healing. Results All cycts except 1 healed after a median of 4 (1-11) injections. A lesion failed to heal in 1 patient, who was operated. 3 patients experienced minor local inflammatory reactions. Interpretation Our results show that percutaneus sclerotherapy with polidocanol has high efficacy in the treatment of ABCs, with a low frequency of side effects. Our findings corroborate data presented in previous publications. We believe that the method will be especially valuable in ABCs of the pelvis and sacrum, where surgery is associated with considerable morbidity. © Nordic Orthopaedic Federation.