Arthroscopic decompression of suprapatellar cyst: case report

Abstract

Bursae around the knee reduce friction between moving structures. When involution of suprapatellar septum fails to occur ("complete septum"), then suprapatellar bursa may stay completely separated from the knee joint cavity to form a cystic cavity. In the case of the increased volume, suprapatellar bursitis can cause painful suprapatellar swelling. The aim is to point to the possibility of arthroscopic decompression of suprapatellar cyst. In the case presented, the indication for knee arthroscopy was based on clinical examination, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance studies. The preoperative diagnosis was verified intra-operatively, and intra-articular cyst decompression was performed by arthroscopy. At the final examination 8 months postoperatively, the patient still had no pain, swelling and had full range of motion. This minimally invasive operative procedure resulted in a satisfactory anatomic and functional outcome. In this case report, we present a patient with suprapatellar cyst submitted to arthroscopic cyst decompression.

Endoscopic Resection of Lateral Synovial Cyst of the Knee

“…2,6,10,16 It is believed that cyst formation depends on a connection between the joint and bursa, with a valve-like effect allowing the passage of fluid from the joint into the bursa with subsequent distention, producing these cysts. 2 Intra-articular cyst decompression relies on resection of the connecting valvular mechanism.…”