Popliteal cysts: a technique of methylene blue dye-assisted arthroscopic decompression

Abstract

Popliteal cysts have been found to be associated with a number of intra-articular lesions. Effusion seems to play a key role in their pathogenesis. Hence, simple excision of cysts is not likely to be curative and the cyst is likely to recur. Open procedures not only carry high recurrence rates but may also be associated with significant perioperative morbidity. The focus of treatment therefore should be to correct the intra-articular pathology. This is usually accomplished arthroscopically. We recommend a technique of simultaneously decompressing the cysts with little additional morbidity when compared with routine arthroscopy. We believe the availability of multiple arthroscopic techniques to treat symptomatic popliteal cyst could broaden the therapeutic armamentarium of knee arthroscopists.