What is popliteal fossa mass?
A cystic mass arising in the popliteal fossa can be either a meniscal cyst, a synovial cyst (Baker’s cyst), or a ganglionic cyst [1]. Soft-tissue popliteal masses can be evaluated using physical examinations and imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What is a popliteal fossa cyst?
Baker’s Cyst (Popliteal Cyst) Baker’s cysts, also known as popliteal cysts, are one of the most common disorders in the knee. These fluid-filled cysts form a lump at the back of the knee that often causes stiffness and discomfort. The condition is named after the 19th century surgeon who first described it, Dr.
What are the commonest masses in the popliteal fossa?
A popliteal cyst, also known as a Baker’s cyst, is the most common tumorous mass found around the popliteal fossa of the knee joint, and is usually treated conservatively with the identification of underlying conditions.
How do you treat a Baker’s cyst without surgery?
Treatment
- Medication. Your doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication, such as cortisone, into your knee to reduce inflammation.
- Fluid drainage. Your doctor may drain the fluid from the knee joint using a needle.
- Physical therapy. Icing, a compression wrap and crutches may help reduce pain and swelling.
How do they remove a popliteal cyst?
Surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove the cyst and repair the hole in the joint lining where the cyst pushed through. Unfortunately, about half of the time the cyst comes back, or recurs, after being removed. Surgeons are cautious when suggesting surgery to remove a popliteal cyst because they are prone to recur.
Is a baker’s cyst serious?
Baker’s cysts aren’t dangerous and they may go away on their own. But occasionally they burst, and if that happens, synovial fluid can leak into the calf below, causing pain, swelling, and reddening.
What is the clinical significance of the popliteal fossa?
The popliteal fossa is a diamond-shaped depression located posterior to the knee joint. Important nerves and vessels pass from the thigh to the leg by traversing through this fossa. These include the two terminal branches of the sciatic nerve, the popliteal vessels and short saphenous vein.
What is the purpose of popliteal fossa?
The Popliteal Fossa is a diamond-shaped space behind the knee joint. It is formed between the muscles in the posterior compartments of the thigh and leg. This anatomical landmark is the major route by which structures pass between the thigh and leg.
What happens if cyst is left untreated?
Some cysts are cancerous and early treatment is vital. If left untreated, benign cysts can cause serious complications including: Infection – the cyst fills with bacteria and pus, and becomes an abscess. If the abscess bursts inside the body, there is a risk of blood poisoning (septicaemia).
Does Baker’s cyst require surgery?
You may also need fluid removed from the knee joint space or the cyst. Surgery isn’t usually needed for a Baker cyst. In rare cases, a Baker cyst can rupture. This can cause serious complications.
How long does it take to recover from Baker’s cyst surgery?
It typically takes around four weeks after baker’s cyst excision for the wound to completely heal. A firm bump of scar tissue will form in the incision. As the wound heals, the bump will slowly go away.