Recurrent popliteal cyst in an adult: a case report and review

Popliteal cysts are typically secondary to an intra-articular pathology in adults but may occur as primary lesions unrelated to knee injury. Careful examination of any mass forming on the posterior aspect of the knee is needed to differentiate benign from malignant conditions. Asymptomatic cysts are often treated conservatively, whereas surgical intervention is recommended for troublesome cysts and for those related to intra-articular derangements. Surgical intervention focused on amelioration of intra-articular derangements and the communication between the knee and the popliteal cyst results in cyst recurrence of less than 5%. A report of a recurrent popliteal cyst, in spite of aggressive surgical intervention, is presented.