Also known as the "Ardennes-knee", a Baker cyst or popliteal cyst is caused by an abnormal collection of synovial fluid which normally lubricates the knee joint. Cyst is formed due to an increase in the amount of synovial fluid, which resulted in an increase in pressure in the joint. After a time, this excess fluid will be bulge toward the back of the knee, forming a cyst.
Often, a cyst occurs because another process injury or a disease that occurs in the knee, causing the increase in the synovial fluid. Some of the most common causes are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and the tears of the meniscus, but they can be considered with other conditions.
A person can have a cyst and never any symptoms. More often, the stiffness and swelling in the back of the knee are reported, causing discomfort and a decrease in activity. It is possible to feel the cyst under the skin. Occasionally, a Baker cyst can rupture allowing swelling, bruising and pain behind the knee and calf. Most people find that having a Baker cyst is an annoyance, but not something that is in need of medical care.
If Baker's cyst is a concern, it is always a good idea to have a medical examination to rule out more serious conditions. Your Orthopaedic doctor will look for a bag of balloon-like the back of the knee. An important factor to consider for your physician will be to differentiate between a cyst boulanger DVT (deep vein thrombosis) or a blood clot. Blood clots can be fatal and are in need of urgent medical care.
X-rays of the knee will be made to seek conditions such as arthritis and to exclude other matters. Sometimes, an MRI is done to confirm the meniscus tears or other soft tissue injuries. Generally, the patient will be diagnosed with a first condition, such as arthritis, which is the secondary Baker's cyst. The orthopedist will probably treat the first condition and Baker's cyst improve simultaneously, without any other intervention. If this operation fails to be the case, the cyst may be drained by needle aspiration. Cyst is removed surgically only if the very large, painful or addresses with any other treatment. Cysts can recur after removal and surgery can cause more problems than intended.
As for any other health problem, it is important to consult a qualified doctor who can treat the condition in an appropriate manner. Baker's cysts may be worsening, but primarily, they may be treated with non-surgical care.
Dr. Mark w. McFarland practices to the spine & Orthopedics Center, a center of Hampton Roads offering orthopaedic procedures and services, such as Hampton Roads computer assisted total knee replacement surgery, pain management and is a Hampton Roads leading rehabilitation centre. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit the the spine & Orthopedics Center at: Ortho.com of the OSC.
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