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Published on: October 20, 2023
Multilobulated popliteal cyst after a failed total knee arthroplasty
Biagio Moretti1, Vittorio Patella, Elyazid Mouhsine
1Department of Clinical Methodology and Surgical Technique, Orthopedics Section II, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
Summary
A popliteal cyst after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may signal implant failure. Surgical excision of these cysts, containing polyethylene debris, is recommended to address prosthetic loosening and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Popliteal cysts are uncommon complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
- These cysts can indicate underlying TKA malfunction, such as wear-particle generation or loosening.
Observation:
- A case of a multilobulated popliteal cyst presenting 8 years post-TKA.
- The cyst was associated with mechanical prosthetic loosening and posterior knee pain.
- Intraoperative findings revealed a cyst filled with polyethylene debris communicating with the knee joint.
Findings:
- Excision of the popliteal cyst containing polyethylene debris is crucial.
- A two-stage surgical approach (cyst excision followed by revision TKA) was effective.
- The patient achieved satisfactory outcomes with improved mobility and no recurrence after 3 years.
Implications:
- Popliteal cyst excision is vital in cases of TKA failure due to polyethylene debris.
- A staged surgical management can be a viable option, especially for elderly patients with comorbidities.
- This approach may prevent further prosthetic loosening and enhance long-term TKA function.
