A Baker's cyst is a cavity filled with joint fluid in the hollow of the knee. It develops due to inflammation, irritation or wear and tear in the knee joint. Those affected experience pain and can no longer fully extend or bend their knee in the case of large Baker's cysts.
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A cyst is a cavity filled with jelly fluid. If joint fluid from the knee joint collects in the hollow of the knee, this is known as a Baker's cyst. The accumulation of fluid creates a lump in the hollow of the knee. The Baker's cyst was originally also referred to as a popliteal cyst (poplietal = affecting the hollow of the knee).
The cause of a Baker's cyst is usually an inflammation or severe irritation of the knee joint. As a result, the body produces more joint fluid, which collects under the skin in the popliteal fossa.
The fluid cannot drain away as the muscles around the joint compress the tissue. This creates a natural valve: more and more fluid accumulates in the Baker's cyst, while drainage is not possible.
The Baker's cyst creates a feeling of tension in the hollow of the knee, especially when the joint is stretched. Due to the accumulation of fluid, those affected are often no longer able to fully bend the knee. Pain can also occur.
If the cyst is very distended, it can press on nerves and blood vessels. If the veins are compressed, venous blood drainage problems can occur. This is similar to a thrombosis of the lower leg vein.
Under certain circumstances, the cyst can burst. This can cause severe pain. As a result, signs of inflammation often occur in the knee and lower leg. This manifests itself in redness and swelling.
Larger Baker's cysts can usually be easily felt in the hollow of the knee.
Imaging procedures clearly show a Baker's cyst. An ultrasound examination is often used, sometimes also magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).
The diagnosis of a Baker's cyst also includes identifying the underlying disease, such as
The underlying disease causing a Baker's cyst must also be identified.
A healthy knee joint on the left, a knee joint with a Baker's cyst in the popliteal fossa on the right © designua | AdobeStock
The treatment of a Baker's cyst depends on its extent. Small Baker's cysts can be treated with medication. In the case of larger accumulations of fluid, the cyst can be punctured and the fluid removed.
The underlying disease must be treated so that no further Baker's cyst develops.
Surgical removal of the Baker's cyst is only justified in exceptional cases.
Orthopaedic specialists deal with all diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This also includes the Baker's cyst.
After studying medicine, an orthopaedist has completed further training to become a specialist in orthopaedics and trauma surgery. The training period in trauma surgery / orthopaedics is 72 months.
You can find experienced specialists for the diagnosis and treatment of a Baker's cyst on the knee here on Leading Medicine Guide!
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