Treatment of solitary cysts of the humerus. Treated by diaphyseal resection and bone grafting.

The 'classical' surgical treatment of unicameral bone cysts of the humerus with curettage and bone grafting is unreliable with approximately 40% failure rate. The author describes a technique of subperiosteal diaphyseal and metaphyseal resection and replacement with a section of fibula maintained in position with an intramedullary nail and further supported by massive tibial cortical and cancellous grafting. Consistent incorporation of the graft and excellent remodelling were observed in 36 patients so treated. No complications or recurrence were reported.