Modified cyst excision for treatment of distal interphalangeal joint mucous cysts

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical effects of osteophytes removal, pedicle resection and deep cystic fluid drainage in the treatment of distal interphalangeal joint mucous cysts. Methods From April 2009 to September 2014, 15 patients with 19 distal interphalangeal joint mucous cysts were treated with osteophytes removal, pedicle resection and deep cystic fluid drainage. Cysts located in the unilateral distal interphalangeal joint were 10, bilateral were 7, both sides communicated with each other were 2. The range of cysts was 0.5 cm×0.4 cm to 2.1 cm×1.8 cm. Results Postoperatively, 1 case occurred incision infection which healed after dressing change. Other incisions achieved primary healing. All the patients were follow-up for 16 to 24 months with an average of 12.5 months. Preoperative clinical symptoms were improved. During the follow-up period, one cyst recurred which was cured after reoperation. Conclusion Application of osteophytes removal, pedicle resection and deep cystic fluid drainage for treatment of distal interphalangeal joint mucous cysts can achieve satisfactory clinical effects due to its low postoperative recurrence rate and good joint functional recovery, which is worthy of popularizing. Key words: Cysts; Drainage; Osteophytes removal; Pedicle resection