[Mammary cysts and their treatment by puncture]

The authors present a study of 631 breast-cyst punctures. Apart from statistics concerning the occurrence of these cysts, a simple and economical therapy using puncture and subsequent insufflation with air is described. The cysts were diagnosed with the aid of ultrasonics, pneumocystography and cytology. In 90% of the cases complications such as haematomas and infections occurred, and recurrence of the cysts was observed in 7.1% of the patients. Puncture of cysts means that the women do not have to undergo unnecessary operations and subsequent cosmetic corrections. The treatment carries no operative or anaesthetic risks. Intra- and para-cystic carcinoma is easily recognized and patients are not burdened with radiation treatment.