BAKER'S CYST

What is a Baker’s cyst?

Baker’s cysts are benign cystic tumors found on the back of the knee joint. The cyst forms with an accumulation of fluid between the 2 groups of muscles behind the knee. This cyst may form from an injury or inflammation of the membrane lining of the knee joint.

How is a Baker’s cyst treated?

There is a possibility that the cyst will resolve and disappear on its own. It is not surgically removed unless it becomes painful, unsightly, or it presses on nerves or blood vessels.

In an operation to remove a Baker's cyst:

• An incision is made over the cyst.
• The cyst is released from surrounding tissue and removed.
• The skin is closed with fine sutures that are removed in 2 weeks.
• This surgery is done as an outpatient and your child will return home the same day.

Please feel free to ask your pediatric surgeon if you have any further questions.