Diagnosis and treatment of popliteal cysts

The authors reviewed 122 patients affected with popliteal cysts and treated between 1975 and 1985 with or without surgery; follow-up ranged from 1 to 7 years (average 3 years and 2 months). The patients were subdivided into 3 age groups, and observed for the clinical, anatomo-pathological and therapeutic differences among them. Cysts affecting children and adults were considered to be acute, or chronic bursitis, and those affecting elderly patients true cysts deriving from the joint cavity. The diagnostic effectiveness of arthrography and sonography is emphasized.