Baker’s Cyst (Popliteal Cyst)
(Part 3 – final )
For two issues we focused on ther Baker’s Cyst . We have given it’s Anatomy, Causes, Symptoms, and Time for Doctor’s Examination,
Today, we will give focus on the Treatment and Recovery.
- Nonsurgical Treatment
Most Baker’s cysts will go away on their own. For cysts that do not disappear, initial treatment is always nonsurgical and may include one or more of the following:
∙ Observation. Your doctor may recommend simply observing the cyst over time to ensure that it does not grow larger and cause painful symptoms.
- Activity modification. Decreasing your activity and avoiding high-impact activities that irritate the knee, such as jogging and aerobics, can help alleviate symptoms.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Steroid injection. Your doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication into your knee joint to reduce inflammation.
- Aspiration. In this procedure, your doctor numbs the area around the cyst, then uses a needle to drain the excess fluid from the joint. Aspiration is often performed using ultrasound to guide the placement of the needle.
- Surgical Treatment
Surgical treatment for a Baker’s cyst is rarely needed. However, it may be recommended for Recovery if you have painful symptoms that are not relieved with nonsurgical treatment and/or if your cyst returns repeatedly after multiple aspirations
- Arthroscopy. In this procedure, your doctor makes tiny incisions under anesthesia, then inserts a small camera called an arthroscope into the knee joint. The camera displays images on a video screen and your doctor uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments.
Arthroscopy is used to treat conditions inside the knee, such as meniscus tears, that may give rise to a Baker’s cyst.
The cyst can also be decompressed arthroscopically. For this procedure, the surgeon uses a tool called a shaver to open up the valve connecting the knee joint to the cyst. This may keep the cyst from re-forming.
- Excision. For large cysts or those that are causing nerve and vascular problems, your doctor may perform an open surgical procedure to excise (remove) the entire cyst.
- Recovery
It is very important to follow your recovery instructions to prevent the recurrence of a Baker’s cyst.
- Early movement. If your cyst has been aspirated or if you have had arthroscopic surgery, you will most likely be allowed to walk right after the procedure, but you should avoid strenuous activity during your recovery.
- Bracing. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a knee brace for several weeks after surgery to immobilize your knee, usually only until you have enough muscle control to walk without the brace.
- Physical therapy. Specific exercises will help improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the knee
The time it takes to recover from surgery depends on whether the underlying condition in the joint was treated during the procedure. Most patients can expect a return to full activity around 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.