How to treat a Becker cyst under the knee? Becker's cyst in the popliteal region

Becker's cyst (Baker, synovial cyst of the popliteal region) is a cyst localized in the popliteal fossa. Its first description was given by Adams back in 1840. However, the name of this pathology is associated with the name of Becker. This scientist described several cases of this disease simultaneously, but in 1877.

Becker's cyst has a different frequency of occurrence in certain pathological processes developing in the knee joint. Therefore, statistics vary greatly. The minimum prevalence is 3.5% and the maximum is 20%. Kolar and Drugova in Prague, when conducting an X-ray examination for knee pain or injury, in 22% of cases it was a popliteal fossa cyst that was diagnosed. A higher prevalence of this pathological process was found in women - almost 70% compared to men (slightly more than 30%).

Causes of development of Becker cyst

The development of a Becker cyst in the knee joint is explained by its complex structure. The capsule of this joint is very large and quite thin, which reduces its resistance to various injuries. The inside of the joint capsule is covered with synovium (a characteristic lining membrane), which forms numerous folds. They spread into the articular cavity, which is large. Its increase also occurs due to connection with some synovial bursae. The number of such bags that communicate directly with the knee joint depends on the individual characteristics of the person, and therefore has very large fluctuations among different people. According to V. Tonkov, there are at least 5 such bags. Kolar and Drugova describe their sizes, which range from 1 to 2 cm. The role of synovial bags, in their opinion, is explained by their mechanical role. They reduce the load on the joint, the friction of the articular surfaces of the bones against each other, and also act as decompression formations, since excess joint fluid flows into them.

According to the literature, the development of Becker cysts occurs from the synovial bursae of the knee joint. Thus, I. Smillie believes that the popliteal cyst is a semi-membranous bursa, which is present normally, but which significantly increases in size and also becomes painful. This assumption is confirmed by the following facts:

Localization of the popliteal cyst on the posterointernal surface of the joint, where the semimembranous synovial bursa is normally located
When performing surgery on the knee joint, surgeons quite often find the vaginal part of the hemimembranochine muscle as part of this bursa
If there is communication between the cyst and the joint, it corresponds to the anastomosis of the semimembranous muscle.

Despite all the mechanisms outlined above, the causes of the development of Becker cysts are not completely known. Many authors explain their occurrence as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and gout. All these diseases are primarily or secondarily associated with autoimmune inflammation, that is, when the immune system begins to damage the cells of its own body, rather than foreign ones.

In some cases, Becker cysts are predisposed to traumatic injuries of the knee joint, as well as meniscal degeneration, which develops with deforming osteoarthritis (in this case it is called gonarthrosis).

According to the literature, popliteal cysts almost never occur unless associated with injury or increased loads on the knee joint. Therefore, they can most often be found in athletes, loaders and other people with the presence of these factors.

Symptoms

Diagnosis of Becker cysts is largely based on the clinical manifestations of this disease. They include:

Discomfort in the knee area
Pain that occurs at rest and intensifies during various physical activities. The pain is localized in the popliteal fossa. They also intensify on palpation. The nature of the pain is dull, and it is not present all the time
Difficulty in moving the knee joint
Palpation determination of tumor formation. It has a tight-elastic consistency, pain is not detected
Paresthesia in the knee area, which is manifested by a crawling sensation, numbness, etc.
The appearance of blockades during movements in the knee, that is, the joint seems to jam
Gait disturbance in the form of lameness
The skin over the formation is not changed, its temperature is not increased, and it is not fused with the underlying tissues.

If the cyst is medium or small in size, then it is clearly visualized when the knee joint is extended. When the knee is bent, it is practically invisible.

However, in one third of patients, Becker's cyst may be asymptomatic. In this case, it is detected as an incidental finding during an X-ray examination of this area.

Complications

If the cyst is large, it leads to compression of veins and nerve endings. This situation is considered as a development of complications. Compression of the popliteal vein leads to the development of a clinical picture of deep vein thrombosis, which requires differential diagnosis, since the approaches to the treatment of such conditions are completely different from each other.

Diagnostics

Marx V. advises following the following rule: “If the patient is over 40 years old and has a local formation on the posteroinner surface of the knee, then a Becker cyst should be confirmed or excluded.”

The diagnostic search also involves differentiation with various diseases. One of them is hygroma of the knee joint. The main distinguishing feature is an increase and decrease in the size of the Becker cyst, but only on condition that the neck of the hernial sac is not obliterated. To determine this sign, manual compression of the cyst is performed. It must be carried out slowly, since the hole through which the cyst communicates with the joint cavity can be very small. After emptying the contents, the Becker cyst becomes flabby. With hygroma, the above-described signs are not detected. Also, differential diagnosis is carried out with the following diseases:

Soft tissue injuries
Oncological processes developing in the underlying tissues of the knee area
Abscesses
Phlebeurysm
Aneurysms of vessels passing in the popliteal region
A hematoma is a localized collection of blood.

In complex diagnostic cases, additional research methods are required. The most commonly shown are:

Atrography, that is, an X-ray examination of the knee joint using a contrast agent. This method is informative only in situations where the Becker cyst communicates with the joint cavity. Arthrography is an invasive research method, so doctors do not prescribe it to all patients, but only in unclear cases, as there may be certain complications, and it also involves a certain radiation exposure to the body. Therefore, it is not performed on pregnant women.
Ultrasonography, that is, the use of ultrasound for diagnostic purposes. Historical background: the first ultrasound examination in arthrology (the science of joints) was performed in the 70s when studying the condition of the hip joints. Later it began to be used more widely, and standards were developed for all joints of the human body, including the knee. Thus, in 1972, MacDonald and Leopold were the first to examine the popliteal region with ultrasound to identify Becker cysts, as well as to differentiate them from deep thrombophlebitis. Since that time, ultrasound began to be used as a screening method in cases where there is swelling in the popliteal region.

It is important to emphasize that ultrasound is not inferior to X-rays in terms of information content. However, ultrasound has a number of advantages:

No radiation exposure
Painless
Non-invasive
High information content
Possibility of carrying out in pregnant women
Possibility of conducting studies over time to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment
Lack of preliminary preparation
Absence of allergic reactions that may develop to the injected X-ray contrast agent during arthrography.

Treatment

Treatment of Becker's cyst is carried out using both conservative and surgical methods. The choice in favor of one method or another is made depending on the following factors:

Size of cystic formation
Duration of cyst existence
Patient age
Presence of concomitant pathology
The presence or absence of signs of compression of nearby anatomical formations.

The conservative method includes two stages. At the first stage, the cyst is punctured and the contents are evacuated from its cavity. At the second stage, the introduction of corticosteroid hormones into the cystic formation is indicated. These hormones have the following therapeutic effects:

Eliminate the inflammatory reaction
Promote the formation of adhesions, which leads to obliteration (closure) of the cystic cavity
Reduce pain and help restore knee function
Prevents relapse of the disease.

These hormones are practically not absorbed into the systemic bloodstream - they exert their effect locally. Therefore, they have practically no contraindications for their use. In this regard, they can be used even in patients who suffer from diseases such as:

Diabetes
Arterial hypertension
Congenital and acquired immunodeficiencies and others.

But still there are some contraindications:

Previous plastic surgery on the joint
Poor blood clotting, which increases the risk of bleeding into the joint cavity
Fracture of a bone located inside a joint
Bacterial or viral skin lesions at the injection site
Significant osteoporosis of the bones involved in the formation of the joint
Necrosis of intra-articular bones.

Surgery to remove a Becker cyst is indicated in the following cases:

Large cysts that almost never resolve, but only increase, as the drainage hole is compressed again
Cysts that exist for a long time. In this case, there is a high probability of cicatricial processes, in which conservative therapy is ineffective, since the cyst capsule is thickened and degenerative processes develop in it. All this reduces the sensitivity of education to prescribed pharmacological drugs. Therefore, conservative therapy in this case will only be a waste of time and money.
Compression of nearby nerve trunks and vessels, which leads to the development of a number of complications
Severe dysfunction of the knee joint, when the patient cannot even bend and straighten the leg in this area
Ineffectiveness of conservative treatment within 2-3 treatment cycles.

An external sign of the presence of a cyst.

Signs of a Baker's cyst in the knee joint appear only after its enlargement. The formation begins to compress the nerve endings, which causes numbness, tingling, and the feeling of “crawling goosebumps.” Treatment is often conservative. But with a large size of Baker's cyst, its rapid growth, and a pronounced decrease in sensitivity, patients are advised to undergo surgical intervention.

General description of Baker's cyst of the knee joint

A Baker's cyst (popliteal or knee cyst) is a soft, elastic formation shaped like a bunch of grapes. 50% of people have an intertendinous bursa on the back of the knee. It is located between the tendons of the gastrocnemius and semimembranosus muscles. When the knee structures are damaged, pathological exudate begins to accumulate in the joint cavity. Fluid penetrates into the intertendon bursa, which leads to an increase in its size. A Baker's cyst forms, and as it grows, pain increases and the range of motion in the joint decreases.

Why does the disease occur?

The accumulation of excess accompanies the course of many inflammatory and degenerative diseases. A similar state is observed at , . A Baker's cyst can form after previous knee injuries - subluxations, fractures, muscle and tendon injuries.

Signs and symptoms of the disease

At the initial stage of the formation of a Baker's cyst, only mild discomfort occurs in the knee after physical exertion or prolonged standing. But as it grows, the severity of symptoms increases. Pain occurs while walking and accompanies. Compression of the nerve endings by the cyst leads to loss of sensitivity. There is numbness and tingling in the ankle area.

A large cyst can be easily felt on the outside of the knee in the popliteal fossa. It is dense, round, elastic, painful when pressed. The formation of a large tumor-like formation causes limited mobility of the knee.

Principles of pathology diagnosis

The basis for making a diagnosis is a characteristic clinical picture, patient complaints, a history of knee joint diseases or injuries. To confirm it, a number of instrumental studies are carried out. The most informative and. According to indications, it is performed to study the condition of the inner surface of the joint.

How to treat Baker's cyst of the knee

If a Baker's cyst is detected at the initial stage of formation, patients are prescribed conservative treatment with the use of medications, physiotherapeutic and massage procedures, and exercise therapy. Patients are recommended to wear orthopedic devices - elastic, semi-rigid or warming ones made of camel and sheep wool.

Medicines

Preparations in the form of tablets and injection solutions are usually used only to treat the underlying pathology that provoked the accumulation of exudate in the joint cavity. And therapy of the cyst itself is carried out using external means. For local application, the following are most often used: Artrosilene, Dolgit,. They relieve inflammation, eliminate pain and swelling, and reduce local temperature. Subsequently, as the symptoms weaken, Finalgon, Capsicam, and Apizartron may be included in treatment regimens.

Physical therapy complex

Physical therapy is not an independent method of treating Baker's cyst. Daily exercise is recommended during the rehabilitation phase. After completion of surgical or conservative treatment, the patient with the diagnostic results is sent to a physical therapy doctor. They create an individual treatment for accelerated restoration of all joint functions and prevention of relapses.

Treatment according to Bubnovsky

S. Bubnovsky’s medical centers provide rehabilitation of patients after therapy for Baker’s cyst. They practice on simulators designed by a chiropractor. But no less effective are exercises that you can perform at home:

lie on your back, clasp your fingers at the back of your head. As you inhale, lift your upper body and bent leg, trying to touch your elbow to the opposite knee;
sit on the floor, rest your hands on the floor behind your back. Bend one leg, bring it behind the other, trying to touch the gymnastic mat with your knee;
stand up using a wall or the back of a chair for support, do shallow lunges and squats.

The exercises should be performed at a slow pace, avoiding excessively sudden, high-amplitude movements. The appearance of pain should be a signal about the need for rest.

Water aerobics

In water, due to the redistribution of loads, exercises are allowed that are strictly prohibited on land. During the recovery period, patients are recommended to swim crawl, breaststroke, backstroke, swings and rotations with legs bent at the knees. Deep squats, lunges, and imitation cycling are especially useful.

Physiotherapy

Of the physiotherapeutic procedures, the most effective is to reduce the size of the cyst and speed up the process of its reverse development. To reduce the severity of pain and resorption of tumor formation, electrophoresis is performed with proteolytic enzymes, group B. During the rehabilitation period, applications with ozokerite and paraffin, and mud therapy are also used.

Surgery

Indications for surgical treatment of Baker's cyst are its long-term existence, large size, entrapment of nerves, blood vessels and soft tissues, limitation of knee flexion and ineffectiveness of conservative therapy.

Puncture

At the initial stage of treatment, accumulated fluid is removed from the intertendon bursa, and its cavity is washed with antiseptics, followed by treatment with glucocorticosteroids. The most commonly used is Hydrocortisone, which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. If an infectious lesion of the knee joint is detected, its cavity is washed with solutions of drugs with antibacterial and antimicrobial activity.

Removal

Surgical treatment is performed under local anesthesia. During the operation, the surgeon makes an incision. After stitching and ligating the junction of the intertendinous bursa with the joint, the doctor removes the cyst. Recently, arthroscopic surgical operations are increasingly being performed, which are characterized by minor injury to soft tissues and a short period of patient stay in the hospital.

ethnoscience

To reduce the size of a Baker's cyst, you can use it, but only as an addition to the main treatment. Ointments, compresses, oil and vodka tinctures also eliminate mild pain that occasionally occurs during the rehabilitation period after surgery.

Compresses

Compresses made from fresh plant materials have an anti-edematous, anti-inflammatory effect. Grind a couple of plantain and dandelion leaves and a handful of chamomile flowers until smooth. Mix in a tablespoon of thick honey and sour cream, spread the mixture in a thick layer on the inside of the knee, and secure with plastic wrap, thick cloth, gauze or an elastic bandage. The duration of the procedure is 1 hour. To prepare a mixture for compresses, you can also use leaves, cabbage, and burdock.

Decoctions and infusions

In folk medicine, drugs with a diuretic (diuretic) effect are used to treat Baker's cyst. By removing excess fluid from the body, it is possible to reduce the size of the tumor formation.

Ointments

To prepare an anesthetic ointment, you need to grind a tablespoon of aloe juice and rich thick sour cream in a mortar until smooth. Without ceasing to mix, add 10 drops of linseed oil and 2 drops of essential oils of pine, lemon balm, and thyme. Introduce 100 g of medical Vaseline in small portions. Store in the refrigerator, rub into the knee if pain occurs.

Features of treatment for children

The same conservative and surgical methods are also used in the treatment of children. The only difference is the use of pharmacological drugs in reduced doses corresponding to the weight and age of the child. At the rehabilitation stage, children are advised to take a course of balanced complexes of vitamins and microelements, for example, Vitamishki or Supradin Kids.

Possible consequences

The most severe consequences occur when a Baker's cyst ruptures. Due to the penetration of fluid into the muscle tissue, swelling forms on the back of the lower leg and severe pain occurs. And when the cyst compresses the veins, blood begins to stagnate, provoking the development of phlebitis and thrombus formation. If a blood clot breaks off and migrates to the lungs, it can cause a dangerous complication - pulmonary embolism.

Disease prevention

Excess weight, increased physical activity, low physical activity, and a deficiency of vitamins and microelements in the body predispose to the formation of a Baker's cyst. For prevention purposes, these factors should be excluded from your usual lifestyle. Orthopedists also recommend wearing or performing work with increased stress on the knees.

Experts' forecast

Timely seeking medical help will help avoid undesirable consequences and the development of complications. The prognosis is favorable. After treatment, all functions of the knee joint are completely restored.

A Baker's cyst is a hernia in the knee area, also known as a popliteal or patellar cyst. This disease was first discovered in the 19th century by Dr. W. Baker, after whom it was named.

The cyst can vary in size and range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. The average size is usually 3 cm. In rare cases, a Baker's cyst can develop in both knee joints at the same time. It most often occurs in children aged 4 to 7 years and in adults aged 35 to 70 years.

The causes can be any damage that leads to swelling. The most common cause is arthritis and osteoarthritis, with the latter causing a Baker's cyst of the knee in almost 50% of cases.

Baker's cyst: symptoms

The symptoms of Baker's cyst are quite varied, and some people with the disease have no symptoms at all. In addition, a small swelling may not always be found, even with a thorough examination by a doctor.

In general, the larger the swelling at the site of the synovial fluid leak, the more likely it is to cause symptoms and be detected on examination. Symptoms of a Baker's cyst may include swelling behind the knee, pain around the knee, and discomfort when trying to bend the knee.

If there is a large swelling under the knee joint, you may feel tension in the knee area, especially when standing.

This type of knee disease most often develops when there is an underlying problem such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a tear in the cartilage that lines the inner wall of the joint. This type of tumor is the most common and is sometimes called a secondary Baker's cyst of the knee.

Often the cyst will disappear on its own over time, or may remain for many months or even years. However, there are various treatments that can help get rid of it faster.

Baker's cyst: treatment

Treatment for Baker's cyst is selected individually for each case; it can be either a course of medical therapy or simple folk remedies. Sometimes even applying an ice compress can relieve pain, but it is best to consult a specialist. Typically, treatment for swelling under the knee includes the following procedures:

In some cases, medications are prescribed, namely non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, which reduce pain and swelling, but can only be taken with a doctor's prescription, as there are serious side effects.
Aspiration is used if the cyst is large and causes severe pain.
Cortisone injections are prescribed to reduce pain and swelling, but the effect may not be long-lasting.
Pulsed electromagnetic radiation and bioresonance therapy procedures are performed by a physiotherapist, and by the way, they can be very effective against inflammation.

Treatment of Baker's cyst can be not only medicinal; doctors also recommend physical exercises to strengthen the knee, its areas and develop muscle strength. Exercise is especially important if the underlying cause is arthritis.

When diagnosed with Baker's cyst, treatment with folk remedies is also considered quite effective. Golden mustache, celandine and burdock are recognized as the most popular herbs in curing the disease. Compresses are made from herbs on the sore knee, and tinctures for oral administration, if the Baker's cyst is small, treatment with a folk remedy can get rid of it forever.

Surgical intervention

Sometimes surgery is performed to remove a Baker's cyst, especially if the swelling is the result of an injury. Surgery to remove the cyst is done if it is very large, painful, or other types of treatment have not worked. Sometimes the keyhole technique is used to close the connection between the leaking synovial fluid into the tissue and the knee joint.

Baker cyst surgery is also recommended to treat an underlying knee problem, such as a torn meniscus, since it is a secondary condition in these types of injuries.

Possible complications of breaker cyst

The most common complication is a rupture of a Baker's cyst in the knee; if this happens, fluid from the cyst can leak into the calf muscle and cause swelling of the calf. There may also be itching and redness of the skin due to irritation caused by the fluid that leaks from the cyst.

A dangerous fluid formation can rupture and then leak the contents into the tissue. A rupture can lead to inflammation and severe pain. Of course, the liquid will gradually resolve, but this may take several weeks. In this case, painkillers will help relieve discomfort.

Having a Baker's cyst may increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis even if it does not rupture. The most dangerous thing is that it is quite difficult to distinguish a ruptured Baker cyst from deep vein thrombosis. In these cases, studies are carried out to exclude thrombosis, and if it is detected, a course of treatment is prescribed.

Ultrasound is the best way to recognize the disease and help rule out deep vein thrombosis. Sometimes an MRI is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Becker's cyst is a specific disease that is not scary in itself, but its complications are scary. This term refers to the accumulation of inflammatory fluid (not pus) in the mucous bursa located on the back of the lower leg, just below the popliteal fossa.

In 50% of people, this bursa is located between the tendons of the muscles (gastrocnemius and semimembranosus), it communicates with the knee joint through small holes and is a variant of the normal development of the joint. If a long-term inflammatory process occurs in the knee joint, the fluid that is formed as a result and accumulates in this intertendinous bursa acquires the name of this disease.

What it is?

A Becker cyst is a benign formation on the inside of the knee, provoked by an inflammatory process in it. Physically, a cyst is a swelling in the area of the knee joint. On the back of the knee in humans there is a so-called intertendinous “bursa”. When inflammation occurs, fluid accumulates in the knee, which can seep into this “bag,” thereby increasing its size.

Causes

A Becker cyst under the knee develops in a bursa, which is located next to the tendons, gastrocnemius and semimembranosus muscles. In the process, a thick elastic mass accumulates, which normally fills the joint cavity. If for some reason the fluid penetrates the tendons, a cyst forms as a result.

Normally, synovial fluid provides lubrication and reduces friction in joints, so problems with it cause pain and other complications. The bursa, in which the disease can develop, is present statistically in half of all people; this is considered normal. However, under certain circumstances, fluid collects in it, which then cannot return back to the joint.

Most often, the disease develops due to metabolic-dystrophic or inflammatory processes that occur in the knee joint. Becker's cyst is caused by pathologies such as osteoarthritis, arthrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, but other options are also possible.

The main causes of the development of Becker cyst:

Excessive physical activity.
Pathological changes in the menisci.
Inflammatory processes in the knee joint.
Mechanical damage to the knee.
Problems with cartilage, their gradual destruction.

Regardless of what exactly caused the pathological process to start, this will cause increased production of synovial fluid, which fills the tendon bursa, which is why a cyst is formed.

Classification

Modern medicine includes several types of cysts that develop and are localized in areas of the knee joint:

A parameniscal neoplasm is diagnosed if the cyst spreads to the ligaments, the pericapsular area, and its size is very large.
One of the benign neoplasms is a ganglion cyst of the knee joint, which is a round-shaped tumor with a duct in the middle. It connects the cyst to the articular capsule and tendon sheath.
When the medial meniscus develops, pain occurs, localized in the inner part of the joint, which intensifies when the limb is flexed.
Another benign multiple neoplasm is a subchondral cyst, consisting of fibrous tissues filled with silicone or myxoid contents. The development of pathology is accompanied by degenerative changes in cartilage.
With a synovial cyst, a hernia is formed or the synovial articular membrane is transformed.

Separately, it is worth considering Baker's cyst and its treatment, both traditional and folk. The neoplasm has a second, more rare, name: ankylosing spondylitis cyst. It is caused by a variety of degenerative processes, representing inflammation of the joint cavity with the development of a tumor with liquid contents. The tumor is localized in the popliteal fossa, has a clear outline and is clearly palpable, especially noticeable when the knee is extended. The formation of pathology occurs regardless of age category and gender; damage to one joint is usually observed.

Symptoms and photos

In the initial stage, the Becker cyst does not manifest itself in any way (see photo). As soon as the volume of the bag begins to increase due to the accumulated inflammatory fluid, problems with limb extension begin. Upon palpation, there is a possibility of detecting a formation under the knee, which is dense and painful.

Inflammatory processes contribute to the accumulation of a liquid substance in the joint cavity, which penetrates inside through the holes in the intertendinous bursa. This leads to an increase in the size of the latter, which imposes restrictions on the movement of the joints. The cyst increases every day, which prevents the extension of the limb. This event is accompanied by the presence of pain. After which, even at rest, the patient may experience pain and a feeling of numbness.

For correct diagnosis, radiography is not used due to its lack of information in this situation. To clarify the diagnosis, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging results are used. The benefits of arthroscopy, which allows the joint to be examined using a video device, cannot be underestimated.

Diagnostics

The following examination methods allow us to identify the presence of this neoplasm and prescribe an accurate diagnosis:

MRI – allows you to examine the popliteal joint and tissue structure from all sides. The most suitable method to detect the disease even at the earliest, asymptomatic stage;
Ultrasound of the knee joint and adjacent areas;
Arthroscopy is a closed (minimally invasive) operation. An incision is made in the examination area through which a microcamera is inserted.

X-ray is an inappropriate method of examination, since it cannot detect a Becker cyst.

Consequences

A popliteal hernia without timely treatment can lead to complications, including:

Due to compression of the veins of the leg by the cyst, other complications can develop: thrombosis - the formation of blood clots in the venous cavity, phlebitis - inflammation of the walls of the veins (causing severe pain, a rise in body temperature, discoloration of the limb).
Disruption of venous outflow from the tissues of the foot and lower leg. The limb begins to swell and its color changes to purple. If such venous stagnation exists for quite a long time, the color of the limb may change to brown, and trophic ulcers may appear on the skin - skin lesions with a constantly weeping surface, which are very difficult and take a long time to treat.
Impaired blood supply to muscles, tendons and even bones due to compression of them by a space-occupying formation. This can lead not only to constant pain in the limb (including the foot), but also to muscle necrosis, and even osteomyelitis - a very severe inflammation that affects the bones of the lower leg. Osteomyelitis, in turn, can lead to sepsis - blood poisoning;
The danger of thrombosis and thrombophlebitis is that the blood clot will not always be in one place. It can “peel off” from the wall of the vein (this is called a thromboembolus) and travel through the bloodstream into vital organs, causing, at a minimum, ischemia of some small area of such an organ. The most dangerous consequence of thromboembolism can be blockage of large branches of the pulmonary artery, which quickly leads to death.

How to treat Becker's cyst?

Treatment of Becker's cyst is carried out using both conservative and surgical methods. The choice in favor of one method or another is made depending on the following factors:

Patient's age;
Presence of concomitant pathology;
The size of the cystic formation;
Duration of existence of the cyst;
The presence or absence of signs of compression of nearby anatomical formations.

Eliminate the inflammatory reaction;
Reduce pain and help restore knee joint function;
Promote the formation of adhesions, which leads to obliteration (closure) of the cystic cavity;
Prevents relapse of the disease.

Arterial hypertension;
Diabetes;
Congenital and acquired immunodeficiencies and others.

But still there are some contraindications:

Fracture of a bone located inside a joint;
Bacterial or viral skin lesions at the injection site;
Previous plastic surgery on the joint;
Poor blood clotting, which increases the risk of bleeding into the joint cavity;
Significant osteoporosis of the bones involved in the formation of the joint;
Necrosis of intra-articular bones.

Surgical treatment

Indications for performing a surgical operation may include the following cases:

large size of the cyst, leading to compression of the vessels of the nerves, soft tissues and bones;
long-term existence of the cyst;
ineffectiveness of conservative therapy;
limitation of knee joint functions.

The intervention is performed under local anesthesia. A small skin incision is made over the cyst, the formation is isolated, and the junction of the tendon bursa with the knee joint is stitched and bandaged. After this, the Becker cyst is removed and the wound is sutured.

The operation lasts about 30 minutes and is not complicated. After its completion, the patient remains in the hospital for 24 hours and can then be discharged. After 5 days, the doctor may allow minor stress on the knee joint. Sutures are removed after 7 days. The development of modern medicine makes it possible to perform operations to remove a Becker cyst using an arthroscope. Such minimally invasive interventions allow patients to recover in a shorter time.

A Becker cyst can go unnoticed for a long time or cause minor discomfort to the patient. However, its large volume can provoke the development of many severe and dangerous complications. That is why this disease requires mandatory treatment from a specialist.

Prevention

Prevention of Becker cyst comes down to the following:

Treatment of diseases of the knee joint.
Be careful when playing sports, protect your knees from injury with protectors.
Periodic courses of taking chondroprotectors, especially after 40 years, which are aimed at preserving cartilage tissue.
Eliminate infections present in the body.

If you notice pain and discomfort in the popliteal region, do not hesitate to visit a doctor - this is the key to successful treatment and the absence of dangerous complications.

Have you recently suffered an injury or have joint disease? Has your knee started to swell and is it difficult for you to go up and down stairs? These are signs of a cyst. Often the disease begins asymptomatically: a lump begins to grow under the knee, but pain and swelling gradually appear. Movements become limited and painful. Baker's cyst of the knee, if diagnosed early, can be treated. It is important to consult a specialist, otherwise serious complications may arise.

Causes of the disease

When the knee joint becomes inflamed, fluid begins to accumulate in the intertendon bursa, in the area of the popliteal fossa. A small bump appears at first, which gradually increases in size. It begins to put pressure on tendons, blood vessels, and nerve endings, causing swelling and pain. Adults are more susceptible to this disease, but the disease also occurs in children. Why does a knee joint cyst form? There are causes associated with diseases:

rheumatoid arthritis;
osteoarthritis;
synovitis;
gout;
hemophilia;
psoriasis.

In a child, a knee joint cyst appears as a result of stress, inflammation, or diseases associated with high activity of the immune system. In adults, there are reasons associated with overload and injury:

excess weight;
heavy loads on joints;
cartilage and tendon injuries;
excessive physical activity;
meniscus damage;
dislocations of the knee joints;
sports injuries.

Main signs and symptoms

The moment of formation of a cyst in the knee joint goes unnoticed - it does not hurt and does not interfere with movement. First, a small tumor appears. It fills with liquid, gradually increasing. As it develops, a benign tumor, behind the knee, begins to manifest itself. The patient develops:

pain around the knee;
discomfort when bending the leg;
decreased mobility;
severe pain when walking or playing sports.

When the size of the cyst becomes large, chronic swelling of the joint occurs, tension at rest, while the patient is standing. The tumor begins to put pressure on the surrounding tissues, squeezing blood vessels and nerve endings. In this case, cyst symptoms occur:

numbness of the limbs;
tingling;
pain in the calf muscles;
convulsions;
it becomes difficult to walk.

Diagnostic methods

If you have the first symptoms of the disease, you can check for yourself whether you have a cyst. While sitting or standing, in a half-squat, feel the hole under the knee. It is better to do this on both legs at the same time, although more often the tumor occurs on one side. A lump under the knee at the back indicates the appearance of a cyst. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner treatment will begin and complications will not arise.

The doctor in the hospital will begin the diagnosis by palpating the sore spot and asking about the reasons that could lead to the disease. He will check the mobility of the joint, range of motion. Prescribe additional studies:

Ultrasound will give a picture of the stage of development and size.
Magnetic resonance imaging will make a more accurate diagnosis and identify the causes.
A blood test will determine whether the growth is malignant.

Complications and consequences of the appearance of a cyst for humans

If treatment for Baker's cyst of the knee is not started in time, serious consequences will arise. Suppuration may occur: suppurative arthritis is a serious inflammatory disease, and the rupture of a large cyst causes fluid to spill into the calf muscle. The lower leg swells, redness appears, and the local temperature rises. Severe pain makes it difficult to walk.

More serious consequences occur when a Baker's cyst under the knee puts pressure on blood vessels and nerve endings. Poor circulation, numbness, and convulsions occur. Severe swelling makes it difficult to walk. There is a possibility of limb loss and even death. It is especially dangerous when they develop:

deep vein thrombosis;
blood stagnation;
blood clot separation;
phlebeurysm;
thrombophlebitis.

How to treat Baker's cyst in the knee joint

If the disease is diagnosed on time, folk remedies help well. It is important to treat the diseases that provoked the formation of the cyst. Good results from the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce pain and relieve swelling. For treatment, physiotherapy and injections into the diseased joint are used. Therapeutic gymnastics exercises that strengthen muscles and develop flexibility are important. To reduce the load on the knee, it is recommended to wear a brace. In difficult cases, a puncture of the cyst or surgical excision is performed.

Conservative methods

There are methods for treating Baker's cyst with the help of medications - they use drugs that relieve inflammation, reduce pain, and reduce swelling. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed in the form of tablets, for example, Nise, Ibuprofen, and Movalis injections are given intramuscularly. Treatment with ointments, gels “Voltaren”, “Bystrumgel” allows you to cope with the cyst in the initial stages of the disease, physiotherapy helps - pulsed radiation, bioresonance therapy.

Surgical removal

If the tumor is small, a puncture of the joint and cyst is performed. Using a large syringe, a puncture is made and the liquid is removed. Then, to prevent inflammation, an injection is made into the joint with the hormonal drugs Hydrocortisone and Diprospan. Sometimes punctures need to be done several times. In cases where the Baker's cyst has become large and begins to cause serious concern, surgery is performed.

How is a cyst removed? The operation is performed under local anesthesia. Several incisions are made into the tumor and the fluid is drained. In case of severe inflammation, the cyst is completely excised. The operation does not last long. The patient is given stitches and a tight bandage to limit movement. After five days the patient is discharged and is healthy. It is recommended to limit the load on the joint only for the first time.

Folk remedies for treatment at home

In cases where the cyst is small in size and diagnosed on time, folk remedies help to cope with it. Even applying ice for twenty minutes can reduce swelling and relieve inflammation, but it is important that it is wrapped in a napkin. The swelling will also decrease if you lie down with your legs elevated during rest and sleep, but compresses and ointments help best.

Medicinal plants golden mustache, celandine and burdock are the most popular in making home remedies. For a compress, you first need to make a tincture. The resulting product is drunk two sips three times a day. The compress is made first from the cakes, and then from the tincture. The manufacturing technology is simple:

Take a golden mustache with stems and leaves.
Fill a jar with it and add vodka.
Withstand 21 days in darkness.
Squeeze through a napkin and drain.

Compresses made from finely chopped leaves of celandine and burdock are excellent. They are placed on the knee, covered with film and wrapped warmly at night. If the lump is small, you can get rid of it forever. Cabbage compresses done at night give good results. The sore spot is smeared with honey and wrapped in cabbage, which has been previously boiled. Everything is wrapped in a warm scarf or blanket.

In the early stages, a homemade ointment made from geranium leaves helps: the green mass is crushed and ground with lard. A compress of one gram of the drug streptocide and one teaspoon each of lemon juice and aloe relieves swelling and reduces pain. The simplest compress for adults and children is made from heated unrefined sunflower oil.

Prevention of cysts in the knee joint

In order to prevent the development of a knee joint cyst, it is recommended to seriously and promptly treat the diseases that provoke its appearance. To prevent tumor formation, the following measures are recommended:

weight loss;
reducing stress on the knee joints;
use of therapeutic exercises;
reduction of heavy loads during training;
exercise in comfortable sports shoes;
warming up the muscles before starting exercise;
finishing your workouts with stretching.

Video: what is a Baker's cyst

If you want to clearly see what a knee cyst looks like, just watch the video. On a large model they will show you its location and tell you how it is formed. You will understand why it is important to start treatment as early as possible, learn to diagnose yourself whether you have a tumor under your knee, and learn what modern methods of treating a cyst are.