A Baker’s cyst is a relatively common inflammation of the knee joint. Usually, this cyst develops after previous procedures, such as arthroscopy of the knee joint, or in cases of diseases that lead to chronic inflammation (e.g. rheumatism). There is an accumulation of synovial fluid (synovia) and a protrusion in the hollow of the knee, often near bursae, as the connective tissue is more flexible here.
A Baker’s cyst manifests itself by swelling, warming and possibly reddening of the knee joint. The outline of the joint has elapsed. The swelling can also spread towards the upper calf muscles.
The knee joint is painful and mobility is restricted. The extent of the cyst is variable, the symptoms depend on the size. Very large Baker cysts can burst and cause severe inflammation in the surrounding tissue. Baker’s cysts mainly affect older patients, but the development of a baker’s cyst is also possible in children.
Puncture of a Baker cyst
The puncture of a Baker cyst is possible. A hollow needle is inserted into the joint capsule and the excess synovial fluid is removed. This usually provides immediate relief of the symptoms and can quickly bring relief to the patient.
One problem with puncture, however, is that there is no causal therapy. The actual cause of the Baker’s cyst is not treated. It is likely that the inflammation will remain in the joint and further formation of synovial fluid will occur, so that the cyst can quickly re-form. Puncture as the sole therapy is therefore only useful if an existing inflammation has already subsided. Otherwise, the puncture can be helpful to relieve the pain, but should only be performed as a supplement to the causal therapy.
Operation of a Baker cyst
Surgery may be possible if a Baker’s cyst does not recede due to drug therapy, or if it occurs frequently. There are several options for surgery. During surgery for a Baker’s cyst, an attempt is always made to eliminate the cause of the inflammation and thus the development of the cyst.
The cyst itself is often not operated on, but recedes independently after successful removal of the focus of inflammation. It is important to stop the recurring or chronic inflammation, because in the long run it can cause damage to the joint corpuscle. A joint lavage can take place, in which a bacterial inflammation is rinsed out.
Meniscus removal or repair may be helpful if the inflammation is caused by a chronic meniscus injury. The removal of bursae can also be considered. The operation depends on the cause of the inflammation and must be individually adapted to the patient. After an operation, the knee joint can be actively mobilized again and the surrounding musculature can be strengthened, if necessary with or without a short immobilization.
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