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Diagnosis and treatment of ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments

  • Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Published:
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Objective

To explore the diagnosis and treatment of ganglion cysts of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) of the knees.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of clinical data of patients with ganglion cysts of ACL and PCL as confirmed by arthroscopy and pathology.

Results

All patients were followed up at the clinic in a mean period of 2 years, and their symptoms including arthralgia, swelling and interlocking of the affected knees disappeared. Normal ranges of joint motion were restored successfully.

Conclusion

Ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments can easily be detected by MRI and should be arthroscopically resected, not only treated by ultrasound but also by CT-guided paracentesis. Complete resection of the cyst and cyst walls is recommended to avoid recurrence. Positive diagnosis of this disease can be improved by clinical manifestations and specific MRI findings. Trauma and chronic strain were the primary etiological factors responsible for ganglion cysts that were more common in ACL than PCL.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China

    Bai Lunhao, Su Yu & Wang Jiashi

Authors
  1. Bai Lunhao
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  2. Su Yu
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  3. Wang Jiashi
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Correspondence to Bai Lunhao.

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Lunhao, B., Yu, S. & Jiashi, W. Diagnosis and treatment of ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 131, 1053–1057 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-011-1286-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-011-1286-5

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