What is the primary treatment method for an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC)?

The primary treatment method for an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is aggressive curettage, which involves the thorough scraping out of the cystic lesion and any associated reactive bone. This approach is typically favored due to the characteristics of an ABC, which is a benign but locally aggressive bone lesion. Aggressive curettage not only aims to remove the cyst but also helps to minimize the risk of recurrence by addressing the lesion comprehensively.

This method often includes additional techniques, such as the use of bone grafting or packing with materials to fill the defect following curettage, thereby promoting healing and preventing the cavity from collapsing. The careful and complete removal of the cyst is crucial, as it allows for effective management of the lesion while preserving surrounding healthy bone as much as possible.

Other treatment modalities, such as radiation therapy, are generally not the first-line option for ABCs since they are more appropriate for lesions that do not respond well to surgical interventions or for sites that are difficult to access surgically. Intralesional steroid injections may show some benefit in certain cases, but they are typically considered adjunctive rather than primary treatment. Surgical fixation is not directly relevant to the treatment of an ABC but may come into play if there are complications regarding bone stability