Ultrasound-guided aspiration of symptomatic intraneural ganglion cyst within the tibial nerve

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Due to Intraneural Ganglion Cysts of the Ulnar Nerve With Joint-Cyst Connection at the Elbow

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The unifying articular theory suggests that intraneural ganglion cysts in the cubital tunnel arise from the elbow joint and are connected to the ulnar nerve through an articular branch. This study aimed to report our clinical experience with these cysts and our surgical findings and outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 13 patients who underwent surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome caused by an intraneural ganglion cyst of the ulnar nerve. Clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, nerve conduction testing electromyography, plain radiography, and ultrasonography were evaluated before and after surgery. MRI was performed in 2 patients. Cyst decompression, disconnection of the articular branch, and ulnar nerve transposition were performed in all.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 29 months. After surgery, local elbow pain and Tinel sign disappeared in all patients, and the average Numerical Rating Scale dropped from 3.7 (2-5) to 0 (0-0). Two-point discrimination testing was normal (<5.0 mm) in 12 patients. Wartenberg sign and "claw hand" deformity became negative, and muscle function and motor nerve conduction velocity were improved in 12 patients. The Medical Research Council muscle strength grade was M4 or M5 in the flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor digitorum profundus of the 4th and 5th digits, and first dorsal interosseous muscle in 12 patients. Postoperative spontaneous potentials including fibrillation and sharp waves, and motor unit recruitment in the first dorsal interosseous muscle were obviously improved. A cystic articular branch was confirmed during surgery in all patients. No cyst recurred clinically or on follow-up ultrasonography.

CONCLUSION

The unifying articular theory of intraneural ganglion cysts applies to those located in the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Surgical disconnection of the articular nerve branch from the ulnar nerve eliminated the pathway for cyst recurrence and achieved good long-term outcomes.

Huge Intraneural Ganglion Cyst of Tibial Nerve in a 78-Year-Old Male Patient With Gonarthrosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Intraneural ganglion cysts (IGCs) are mucinous cysts located within peripheral nerves, often associated with an articular nerve branch and the adjacent synovial joint capsule. These cysts, while rare, can occur in various nerves, with the tibial nerve being an infrequent site. Tibial nerve IGCs are rare pathologies. We present a case of a tibial nerve IGC in a 78-year-old male patient with pre-existing grade III gonarthrosis. Furthermore, we performed a brief review of the existing literature for tibial nerve IGCs. To our knowledge, we present the second case of an IGC in a patient with known pre-existing gonarthrosis. This case raises the potential association between IGCs and degenerative knee pathologies and underscores the crucial role of early and accurate diagnosis. Differential diagnosis of nerve sheath tumors and extra-articular calf neuropathy is essential not only for definitive treatment but also to rule out more serious alternative diagnoses. While ultrasound-guided aspiration of cystic fluid with steroid injection and conservative management are also treatment methods defined in the literature, we believe that exploratory surgery is the critical point of treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis is paramount, as delayed diagnosis and treatment may cause persistent functional and sensory deficits.

Beyond schwannomas and neurofibromas: a radiological and histopathological review of lesser-known benign lesions that arise in association with peripheral nerves

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors comprise a significant percentage of both benign and malignant soft tissue tumors. The vast majority of these lesions are schwannomas and neurofibromas, which most radiologists are familiar with including the well-described multimodality imaging features. However, numerous additional often under-recognized benign entities associated with nerves exist. These rarer entities are becoming increasingly encountered with the proliferation of cross-sectional imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is important for the radiologist to have a basic understanding of these entities as many have near-pathognomonic MR imaging features as well as specific clinical presentations that when interpreted in concert, often allows for a limited differential or single best diagnosis. The ability to provide a prospective, pre-intervention diagnosis based solely on imaging and clinical presentation is crucial as several of these entities are "do not touch" lesions, for which even a biopsy may have deleterious consequences. To our knowledge, the majority of these benign entities associated with nerves have only been described in scattered case reports or small case series. Therefore, the aim of this article is to provide a radiopathologic comprehensive review of these benign entities that arise in association with nerves with a focus on characteristic MRI features, unique histopathologic findings, and entity specific clinical exam findings/presentation.

Does complete regression of intraneural ganglion cysts occur without surgery?

PURPOSE

The dynamic nature of intraneural ganglion cysts, including spontaneous expansion and regression, has been described. However, whether these cysts can regress completely in the absence of surgical management has important therapeutic implications. Therefore, we aim to review the literature for cyst regression without surgical intervention.

METHODS

We reviewed our database of 970 intraneural ganglion cysts in the literature to search for evidence of complete regression based on strict radiologic confirmation, either spontaneously, or after percutaneous cyst aspiration or steroid injection.

RESULTS

We did not find any examples of complete regression without surgical treatment that met inclusion criteria. Spontaneous regression was reported in four cases; however, only two cases had follow-up imaging, both of which demonstrated residual cysts. Nineteen cases of percutaneous intervention were found in the literature, 13 of which reported clinical improvement following aspiration/steroid injection; however, only seven cases had available imaging. Only two cases reported complete resolution of cyst on MR imaging at follow-up, but reinterpretation found residual intraneural cyst in both cases.

CONCLUSION

We believe that pathology (structural abnormalities and/or increased joint fluid) always exists at the joint origin of intraneural ganglion cysts which persist even with regression of the cyst. The persistence of a capsular abnormality or defect can lead to recurrence of the cyst in the future, and while imaging may show dramatic decreases in cyst size, truly focused assessment of images will show a tiny focus of persistent intraneural cyst at the joint origin. Thus, expectant management or percutaneous intervention may lead to regression, but not complete resolution, of intraneural ganglion cysts.

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Peripheral Nerves: Technical Considerations

Advances in ultrasonographic (US) technology featuring high-resolution transducers have revolutionized US over recent years as a modality increasingly used in the evaluation of musculoskeletal structures and peripheral nerves. A wide variety of nerve pathologies can be detected, such as neoplastic and tumorlike lesions, entrapment syndromes, posttraumatic injuries, and inflammatory conditions. US can serve as an imaging tool for guiding percutaneous treatments, such as injection therapies or hydrodissection, and assist with perioperative nerve marking and visualization of peripheral nerves in the operating room. This article describes the normal US appearance of peripheral nerves, US imaging techniques, common peripheral nerve pathologies, and interventional applications.

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided ganglion fenestration in children: initial results

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate our pediatric experience with percutaneous ultrasound-guided fenestration of ganglia (PUGG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of pediatric patients who underwent PUGG from June 2016 to October 2018 at a free-standing tertiary referral academic children's hospital with a minimum of 6 months follow-up. Electronic medical records, picture archiving system, and post-procedural calls were utilized for patient demographics, lesion characteristics, procedure details, and recurrence. The procedure itself consisted of assessment by Child Life, application of topical anesthetic cream, sterile preparation and draping, and intra-procedural ultrasound guidance for local anesthetic instillation, ganglion aspiration, fenestration, and intra-remnant steroid instillation. Post-procedure care included an ice pack, compression dressing for 48 h, and 4 weeks of brace wear and activity restriction.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients met the inclusion criteria, ages 3-18 years, mean 13.5 years, and female to male ratio of 2:1. Ganglion locations consisted of 80% (36/45) in the wrist and 20% (9/45) in other locations (elbow, ankle, and foot). Ninety-eight percent (44/45) of procedures were performed non-sedated, including 20% (9/44) between ages 7 and 11 years. 28.9% (13/45) of ganglia recurred, the earliest at 3 weeks, the latest at 10 months, and an average of 3 months' time. No complication occurred and no patients required post-procedural narcotics or Emergency Department visitation for pain control.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided fenestration of ganglia (PUGG) is a safe, minimally invasive alternative to surgical excision in the pediatric population, which can be performed without sedation and does not leave a scar.

A Rare Case of Tibial Intraneural Ganglion Cyst Arising From the Tibiofibular Joint

Intraneural ganglion cysts are a rare occurrence. They are most commonly found originating from the common peroneal nerve but are also frequently reported on the radial, ulnar, median, sciatic, tibial, and posterior interosseous nerves. A typical clinical presentation is posterior knee and calf pain resulting from tibial neuropathy with preferential degeneration of the popliteus muscle. Symptoms include pain, paresthesias, and decreased strength that originates in the knee and commonly extends to the plantar surface of the foot. These findings can be mistaken for lumbar neuropathies and compression of the sacral nerve roots. Differential diagnosis includes peripheral nerve sheath tumors, Baker’s cysts, extraneural ganglion cysts, and atypical vascular or lymphatic malformations. In this case report, the patient was a 61-year-old male, previously in good health, who presented with progressive pain in his medial left hamstring as well as weakness in left foot plantar flexion and paresthesias in the plantar aspect of his left foot. He first noticed impairments with his ability to push off with his left foot when running. His electromyogram (EMG) was abnormal and subsequent MRI of the left leg showed a complex intraneural ganglion cyst arising from the tibiofibular joint and ascending into the tibial nerve. He underwent indirect decompression through joint resection. Unfortunately, he did not have clinical improvement on one-year follow-up. Overall, symptomatic treatment of intraneural ganglion cyst includes decompression, surgical excision, or minimally invasive decompression by percutaneous aspiration of the ganglion under ultrasound guidance.

Surgical Treatment of Intraneural Ganglion Cysts of the Ulnar Nerve at the Elbow: Long-Term Follow-up of 9 Cases

BACKGROUND

Intraneural ganglion (IG) cysts have been considered curiosities and their pathogenesis remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To clarify ulnar nerve at the elbow (UNE) pathogenesis and long-term surgical outcomes by presenting 9 rare cases of IG of the UNE.

METHODS

Surgical treatment of IG was performed. Clinical symptoms, physical examinations, and electromyogram were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. At least 4 yr of follow-up was performed.

RESULTS

The Tinel's sign became negative and local elbow pain disappeared in all 9 patients after surgery, and the average visual analog scale/score dropped from 4.9 (3-8) to 0 (0-0) after 6.2 d (2-10) on average. Two patients retained positive Froment test, “claw hand” and paresthesias with the 2-point discrimination much different from the contralateral little finger. Postoperative the UK Medical Research Council muscle strength score (MRC) grades of the flexor carpi ulnaris and the flexor digitorum profundus muscle of the fourth and fifth digits recovered to M4-M5 from M0-M2 in all 9 patients. The postoperative MRC grades of the third to fourth lumbrical muscles, the interossei, and the hypothenar recovered to M3-M5 from M0-M2 in 7 patients. Cystic articular branch (CAB) was found in all 9 patients intraoperatively. No symptomatic recurrence of IG was seen. The mean motor nerve conduction velocity of ulnar nerve across the elbow recovered from 5.3 to 41.2 m/s.

CONCLUSION

A unifying articular theory is responsible for the pathogenesis of IG of UNE and disconnection of the CAB would prevent recurrence. The long-term outcome is good after surgical treatment of IG of UNE.

The cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural ganglion cyst of the ulnar nerve at the elbow: a case report

BACKGROUND

Cubital tunnel syndrome is common nerve compression syndrome among peripheral nerve compression diseases. However, the syndrome caused by intraneural ganglion cysts has been rarely reported. Medical approaches, like ultrasound-guided aspiration and open surgical treatment remain to be discussed.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 57-year-old woman presented with occasional pain, numbness and paralysis in her left hand and a palpable, painless mass in the ulnar side of her left elbow. Ultrasound-guided aspiration of the mass was performed to decompress the ulnar nerve. The patient experienced an evident release of pain in her hand, but symptoms of numbness and paralysis recurred 3 months later which greatly bothered the patient's daily life. After evaluation, we had to perform an open surgery to excise the cyst. External neurolysis and anterior subcutaneous transposition were done. The patient was followed up for 2 years, and she made a complete recovery with no functional limitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The symptoms caused by intraneural ganglion cyst can be alleviated by accurate puncture. But puncture may be not complete and symptoms could recur. Complete external neurolysis can be counted as a complete and reliable treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis, careful preoperative imaging assessment and full decompression can be expected to receive a good rehabilitation.

A rapidly progressive foot drop caused by the posttraumatic Intraneural ganglion cyst of the deep peroneal nerve

BACKGROUND

Intraneural ganglion cysts usually arise from the articular branch of the nerve. The relationship between intraneural ganglion cysts and trauma is not clear.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 62-year-old female with a rapidly progressive foot drop caused by a posttraumatic intraneural ganglion cyst of the deep peroneal nerve. We excised the ganglion cyst and performed nerve decompression. After the surgery, the patient had a functional recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

The concurrence of an intraneural ganglion cyst and trauma may increase damage to the nerve, although it is difficult to diagnosis before an operation. Early diagnosis and early proactive interventions would likely be associated with a good outcome.

Intraneural ganglion cyst involving the tibial nerve-a case report

Intraneural ganglia are rare non-neoplastic cysts that are caused by an accumulation of thick mucinous fluid. This occurs within the epineurium of peripheral nerves, which is encased in a dense fibrous capsule. The most common presentation of this tumour is local and/or radiating pain. Involvement of the tibial nerve is extremely uncommon, with less than 18 reported cases in the literature. We present a case of an intraneural tibial nerve ganglion cyst in a young male. We also discuss the current literature and proposed pathogenesis and treatment of this rare entity.

Ultrasound-guided aspiration of wrist ganglions: a follow-up survey of patient satisfaction and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Ganglion cysts are one of the most frequently occurring masses of the wrist, often causing pain and interfering with daily activity. Ultrasound (US)-guided aspiration is a treatment for ganglion cysts of the wrist.

PURPOSE

To examine the results and patient satisfaction of US-guided aspiration of wrist ganglion cysts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Medical records from August 2009 through December 2013 were reviewed to identify all adult patients referred to a single musculoskeletal radiologist for US-guided aspiration of a painful wrist ganglion cyst. Records were reviewed for patient demographics, cyst size, location, and morphology. Outcomes and patient satisfaction were evaluated using a telephone questionnaire at a minimum of 9 months after the procedure.

RESULTS

Of 56 consecutive patients identified, follow-up data were available for 39 patients (69%) at a minimum of 9 months. There were 21 volar and 18 dorsal ganglion cysts. The overall recurrence rate was 20% (8 of 39 patients) and only five patients reported a pain score of greater than 2 out of 10. The mean age of patients with recurrence of the cyst was greater than that of patients without recurrence (52 vs. 35 years, P = 0.03). Satisfaction with the outcome was high and varied by recurrence. There were no acute complications including infection, hemorrhage, or allergic reaction.

CONCLUSION

US-guided aspiration is a safe and potentially effective treatment for ganglion cysts of the wrist, with high patient satisfaction. US-guided aspiration may be particularly advantageous for volar ganglion cysts, and in patients who are poor surgical candidates.

Tibial nerve intraneural ganglion cyst in a 10-year-old boy

Intraneural ganglion cysts are uncommon cystic lesions of peripheral nerves that are typically encountered in adults. In the lower extremity, the peroneal nerve is most frequently affected with involvement of the tibial nerve much less common. This article describes a tibial intraneural ganglion cyst in a 10-year-old boy. Although extremely rare, intraneural ganglion cysts of the tibial nerve should be considered when a nonenhancing cystic structure with intra-articular extension is identified along the course of the nerve. This report also details the unsuccessful attempt at percutaneous treatment with US-guided cyst aspiration and steroid injection, an option recently reported as a viable alternative to open surgical resection.

Use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in sports medicine

Ultrasonography has many important advantages over other imaging modalities and many important applications in sports medicine. This article presents an evidence-based discussion of the use of ultrasound technology to diagnose and treat common musculoskeletal disorders, with emphasis on the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and foot and ankle. Topics include basic principles, scan artifacts, the appearance of musculoskeletal structure characteristics and pathologies, and various diagnostic and therapeutic applications in sports medicine.

Musculoskeletal aspiration procedures

With advances in imaging technology, there has been a significant increase in the number and range of interventional musculoskeletal image-guided procedures. One of the most commonly performed image-guided musculoskeletal interventions is the diagnostic and therapeutic percutaneous aspiration and drainage of multiple types of intra-articular, juxta-articular, and intramuscular pathologic fluid collections. These procedures may be performed under fluoroscopic, ultrasound, computed tomography, or even magnetic resonance guidance depending on the location to be accessed, type of pathology, patient characteristics, and operator preference. Musculoskeletal image-guided aspiration and drainage procedures are minimally invasive and generally very safe while offering valuable diagnostic information as well as therapeutic benefit. This article focuses on the appropriate indications, contraindications, and general technique for accessing the major joints via imaging guidance. For each joint, we discuss pertinent anatomy, appropriate imaging modalities, and preferred approaches to gaining intra-articular access. Additionally, the article discusses some of the more frequently encountered juxta-articular and intramuscular fluid collections that can be accessed and aspirated via percutaneous intervention, with mention of the importance of recognizing extremity sarcomas that can mimic these benign collections.

Ultrasound-guided aspiration and injection of an intraneural ganglion cyst of the common peroneal nerve

BACKGROUND

Intraneural ganglion cysts are rare, benign, mucinous lesions that occur within neural sheaths and are thought to involve cystic fluid exiting from nearby synovial joints. They often present as tender masses causing paresthesias in the distribution of the involved nerve, muscle weakness or cramping, or localized or referred pain.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We present a case of a patient who initially presented with foot drop due to an intraneural ganglion cyst of the common peroneal nerve. This cyst was successfully treated using ultrasound guidance to aspirate the cyst and inject corticosteroid to prevent further inflammation.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Standard of care has previously involved surgical resection, but this has been associated with a high frequency of recurrence. Due to the risks of nerve and vessel damage, there have been efforts to find alternative ways of resolving these cysts.

PURPOSES AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Aspiration and injection of corticosteroid is a useful and minimally invasive alternative to surgery for managing intraneural ganglion cysts.

Peripheral neuropathy caused by joint-related cysts: a review of 17 cases

BACKGROUND

Clinical compression neuropathy caused by para-articular cysts is rare. Only recently, the unifying articular theory was proposed to clarify its true etiologic nature. The authors attribute 17 cases to this theory in order to illustrate the shift in the diagnostic and treatment protocol, and the possible impact on patient outcome.

METHODS

Eight intraneural and nine extraneural cysts were included. The proposed diagnostic protocol includes electromyography and ultrasound, followed by magnetic resonance imaging to characterize the cyst. The proposed treatment protocol consists of (1) ligation of the pedicle connecting the cyst with the afflicted joint, (2) decompression of the nerve and, when needed and (3) disarticulation of the superior tibiofibular joint (in case of peroneal nerve involvement).

RESULTS

Outcome was good to excellent in all patients, with recovery of sensory and motor function. Cyst recurrence was observed in three intraneural cases (18 %). Analysis of our own diagnostic protocol showed that atypical compression neuropathies should follow a strict diagnostic protocol to exclude missing the presence of a cyst. Ultrasound needs to play a crucial role, with MRI for cyst characterization and pedicle identification.

CONCLUSIONS

Retrospective proof in favor of the articular theory was found in all cases. An explanation for the cyst recurrences was formed based on the articular theory. In addition, a diagnostic and therapeutic protocol is proposed for all atypical peripheral compression neuropathies with the ultimate goal to achieve optimal patient outcome.

A rare case of intraneural ganglion cyst involving the tibial nerve

Cystic lesions around the knee are a relatively common occurrence. Several types of cysts have been reported, including synovial, bursal, and ganglion. Ganglion cysts are not lined by synovial cells. Their location is highly variable, with occurrences described in the fat pads near the tibia or femur, muscles, nerves, and arteries. Intraneural ganglia are rare nonneoplastic cysts caused by the accumulation of thick mucinous fluid within the epineurium of peripheral nerves, encased in a dense fibrous capsule. These cysts can cause compression of the adjacent nerve fascicles, resulting in pain, paresthesias, weakness, muscle denervation, and atrophy. They are most commonly manifested by local and radiating pain, but sensory and motor deficits have also been described. Involvement of the tibial nerve is exceptionally rare, with <15 reported cases in the literature. We present a case of intraneural tibial ganglion cyst in a young woman. We also discuss the imaging features, differential considerations, proposed pathogenesis and anatomic origin, and treatment of this rare entity.

Ultrasonography in the diagnosis of peripheral nerve disease

INTRODUCTION

High-resolution ultrasound (US) of the peripheral nerves is now a standard means of assessing neuromuscular disorders in many centers. Currently used in conjunction with electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies, nerve US is especially effective in the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathies.

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews the basic physics of peripheral nerve US, guidelines for its current use and future directions. Advantages of using nerve US alongside EDX studies are outlined along with current limitations of testing. The role of US in the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathy is emphasized, particularly in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). US assisted diagnosis of peripheral nerve tumors, hereditary neuropathy and dysimmune neuropathy and traumatic injuries is also described.

EXPERT OPINION

US is a powerful tool in the assessment of peripheral nerve disease. Nerve US is an evolving, young discipline. There is still much to learn, but current evidence supports US imaging of all patients presenting for evaluation of possible mononeuropathy. With improvements in resolution, the introduction of US contrast agents and objective measures of nerve echogenicity, there is promise for further expanding its role in the diagnosis of all peripheral neuropathies.