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A Baker's Cyst With Distal Extramuscular Extension: A Case Report
Ervin P Anies1, Robert A Waltz2, Sean Lacey3
1Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, USA.
Cureus
|February 17, 2025
Summary
This study presents a successful non-operative treatment for a Baker's cyst with an unusual distal location using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and doxycycline tissue sclerosis, leading to symptom resolution.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
Background:
- Baker's cysts, or popliteal cysts, are common in the knee.
- Unusually distal or extramuscular Baker's cysts pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Non-operative management is often preferred for symptomatic Baker's cysts.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old male presented with recurrent posterior knee effusions post-meniscectomy.
- Imaging revealed a Baker's cyst with distal extramuscular extension into the gastrocnemius muscle.
- Aspiration yielded synovial fluid, confirming the diagnosis.
Findings:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and doxycycline tissue sclerosis were successfully employed for treatment.
- The patient experienced symptom resolution within three weeks of initial sclerotherapy.
- A second, lower-dose treatment further supported recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the efficacy of non-operative modalities for complex Baker's cysts.
- Platelet-rich plasma and doxycycline sclerotherapy offer a viable alternative to surgery.
- Successful treatment of Baker's cysts with unusual distal extramuscular extension is achievable.
