Recurrent ganglion cyst in the anterolateral portal following knee arthroscopy

Ganglion cysts (GC) are an uncommon complication following arthroscopic knee surgery. Due to high rates of recurrence following GC resection, many symptomatic patients can experience pain and discomfort for years. The presence of a GC at the site of an arthroscopic knee portal has only been reported once before in the literature. This case report details the history, physical and treatment of an active-duty soldier who had undergone various aspirations and surgical resections with limited improvement until the most recent operative intervention. At 18 months postoperatively, the patient had not experienced recurrence and had returned to all activities. We believe this surgical technique yielded resolution of the GC because following resection, the joint was checked to exclude areas of fluid extravasation, the capsule closure was performed with non-absorbable barbed suture and the operative extremity was immobilised in extension for 2 weeks to promote soft tissue rest and healing.