What are the causes? Mechanical stress can lead to degeneration of the facet joint. As degeneration progresses, synovial fluid can accumulate to protect the joint. Once enough fluid forms under pressure, an trapped synovial cyst can form.
Do synovial cysts go away?
Many cysts will heal on their own, which means conservative treatments like rest and anti-inflammatory pain relievers can often be enough to clear them. However, in some cases, routine drainage of the sac may be needed to reduce symptoms.
How do I remove a synovial cyst?
The most reliable treatment method for a synovial cyst is removal of the cyst and subsequent fusion of the joint. Fusion of the joint stops all movement at this level of the spine, and without movement the cyst should not regenerate. It is the most reliable treatment, but it is also a difficult operation for the patient.
What causes synovial cysts in the back?
A spinal synovial cyst is a fluid-filled sac that grows along the spine. It is the result of the degeneration of an articular facet of the vertebrae of the spine. Most synovial cysts develop in the part of the lower spine called the lumbar spine. These cysts are rare and often cause no symptoms.
Can a synovial cyst be caused by trauma?
Intraspinal synovial cysts usually result from osteoarthritis and degeneration of the facet joints, causing capsular damage and eventual rupture of the synovial membrane. Alternatively, synovial cysts can occur as complications of cross-body trauma, both from a single major trauma and from repeated microtraumatic events.
Can a synovial cyst go away on its own?
Synovial cysts are usually harmless, so treatment is often unnecessary. However, some people may experience pain, difficulty walking, or problems like sciatica. For mild symptoms, a doctor may suggest a period of rest and observation. Physical therapy or occupational therapy may also be an option for some people.
Do lumbar synovial cysts go away on their own?
Many cysts will heal on their own, which means conservative treatments like rest and anti-inflammatory pain relievers can often be enough to clear them. However, in some cases, routine drainage of the sac may be needed to reduce symptoms.
How to get rid of a cyst on the spine?
To remove the cyst and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves, your doctor will perform a procedure called microdecompression. This is often followed by fusion of the adjacent vertebrae to prevent the cyst from recurring.
What is the average size of a synovial cyst?
The size of the synovial cyst varied, but in most cases the cyst was 0.51 cm in diameter.
Can a synovial cyst be drained?
Injections for synovial cysts There are two types of injections that can help with pain relief: facet injections or epidural injections. facet injection. The facet joint can be penetrated with a small needle, and sometimes the cyst can be drained through the joint by suction.
What is the best way to treat a lumbar synovial cyst?
The best treatment for synovial cysts is usually nonsurgical treatment, including over-the-counter pain relievers, activity modification, and injections. The pain management specialists at Neurosurgery One offer these treatments.
How to get rid of a synovial cyst on the spine?
Two types of injections are used to treat synovial cysts. A facet injection can drain fluid from the cyst through the facet joint. A steroid is used after the fluid is removed to reduce swelling and inflammation.
How do you remove a cyst from your spine?
To remove the cyst and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves, your doctor will perform a procedure called microdecompression. This is often followed by fusion of the adjacent vertebrae to prevent the cyst from recurring.