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Meniscal Cyst

Synovial fluid-filled cystic mass adjacent to a torn meniscus most commonly on lateral side producing palpable bulge along joint line.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Meniscal Cyst?

Meniscal cysts are synovial fluid-filled cystic masses developing adjacent to a meniscal tear, most often a horizontal cleavage tear; pathophysiology involves a one-way valve mechanism allowing joint fluid to herniate through the tear and accumulate in surrounding capsular or extra-articular soft tissues.

More common in lateral meniscus (75%) than medial (25%) due to thinner lateral capsule; classic presentation is palpable mass along the lateral joint line that varies with activity and may diminish on knee flexion (Pisani sign).

Diagnosis is clinical with confirmation by MRI showing the meniscal tear and adjacent cyst; treatment focuses on the underlying meniscal pathology — arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with cyst decompression in older patients with degenerative tears, or meniscal repair if the tear is repairable.

Symptoms

Palpable mass at joint line (lateral more than medial)
Mechanical symptoms — clicking, catching, locking
Joint line tenderness with deep palpation
Activity-related joint pain
Mass may vary with knee flexion-extension
Effusion and swelling in some patients
Restriction in deep knee flexion

Risk Factors

Meniscal tear (horizontal cleavage most common)
Athletes with rotational knee injuries
Older adults with degenerative meniscal tears
Discoid lateral meniscus (predisposition)
Previous knee surgery
Sports involving cutting and pivoting
Workplace activities with repetitive squatting

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Palpable mass at knee joint line
  • Persistent mechanical knee symptoms
  • Failed conservative treatment of meniscal tear
  • Recurrent cyst after aspiration
  • Activity restriction from cyst-related symptoms
  • Imaging confirmed meniscal tear with cyst
  • Pre-arthroscopic surgical planning

Treatment Methods

01
MRI to confirm meniscal tear and characterize cyst
02
Conservative — activity modification, NSAIDs, physical therapy
03
Aspiration with corticosteroid injection (often recurs)
04
Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with cyst decompression
05
Meniscal repair when tear is repairable in younger patients
06
Open cyst excision rarely required
07
Post-operative rehabilitation with progressive weight-bearing

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.