Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Third Metatarsal Treated Using Free Nonvascular Fibular Strut Graft-A Rare Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: An aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is an unusual, non-cancerous bone lesion that is characterized by its lytic (causing bone loss), hemorrhagic, and expanding nature. ABCs are relatively rare, making up only 1% of all bone tumors. These cysts are typically found in long bones and the spine but are very rarely seen in the metatarsal bones, making such occurrences quite uncommon.

CASE REPORT: In this case report, we present a case of ABC of the 3rd metatarsal in a 26-year-old female with complaints of long-standing foot pain and gradually increasing swelling of the dorsum of the foot. After radiological evaluation, she had undergone histopathological evaluation. An en bloc resection of the metatarsal along with the tumor mass was performed and the gap was replaced with an ipsilateral fibular strut graft. Histopathological examination of the resected tissue was suggestive of ABC without any evidence of malignancy. At the end of 1 year of follow-up, she is now completely pain free with intact rom of foot and ankle.

CONCLUSION: The present study aims to describe a case of ABC of the metatarsal, a condition that not only poses a diagnostic dilemma but also constitutes a challenge in the management of lesion.