Curettage without bone grafting for a simple bone cyst in the capitate.

Purpose: To review the outcome after intralesional curettage without bone grafting for simple bone cysts in the capitate.

Methods: Records of 12 hands in 10 consecutive females aged 14 to 21 (mean, 17.5) years who underwent intralesional curettage without bone grafting for a simple bone cyst in the capitate were reviewed. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Wrist/hand pain was assessed using the modified Mayo wrist score. Patient satisfaction, range of motion, and grip strength were self-evaluated as improved, unchanged, or worse.

Results: After a mean follow-up of 7.5 (range, 2.5- 12.5) years, the mean DASH score was 12.3 (range, 0-25), and the mean modified Mayo wrist score was 85 (range, 70-95); the modified Mayo wrist score was excellent in 8 hands and good in 4 hands. All patients had bone union and preservation of capitate height. All patients had no pain except for 2 patients (4 hands) who reported pain after strenuous activity. All patients had improved range of motion, and all but 2 patients had improved grip strength.

Conclusion: Curettage without bone grafting for a simple bone cyst in the capitate is a sufficient and viable option.