Aneurysmal Bone Cysts in the Hand Treated by Free Non-Vascular Transfer of Metatarsal or Proximal Phalanx from the Foot

Abstract

Two cases of aneurysmal bone cyst in the hand are reported. In one case the entire first metacarpal was resected and grafted using the fourth metatarsal. In the second case diaphysectomy of the middle phalanx of the index digit was performed, and the proximal phalanx of the second toe was used as graft. Satisfactory length and function were maintained, the grafts remained viable and there was no donor site morbidity. Transplant of a metatarsal or toe phalanx to the hand, as a free non-vascularized graft, is a relatively straight forward operation, requires minimal refashioning of the graft, provides articular surfaces for joint reconstruction and leaves little donor site morbidity.