Ganglion Cyst Around the Knee

Ganglion cyst of the cruciates can cause knee pain and interfere with flexion and extension of the knee. The patient may complain of pain and tightness in the knee, especially with flexion of the knee. These cysts can be seen clearly on an MRI. It is a benign, subcondylar, radiolucent lesion without degenerative arthritis. The most common locations are:

· Epiphysis of long bones (such as medial malleolus)

· Femoral head

· Proximal tibia

· Carpal bones

· Acetabulum (subarticular)

Ganglion cysts are typically seen on x-rays as a well demarcated, solitary radiolucent lesion with sclerotic margins and no communication with the joint can be seen. An MRI will show the solitary, uni, or multiocular lesion, which has a sclerotic rim and the bone scan is usually not “hot”. This cyst can compress the common peroneal nerve. Treatment usually consists of a decompression of the cyst and the nerve. A fusion of the proximal tibiofibular joint may be considered, especially if the cyst reoccurs after the excision.