Recurrent intraneural ganglion cyst of the tibial nerve - Case report

Different theories have evolved to explain the pathogenesis and the cell of origin of intraneural ganglion cysts. Reportedly only three cases of intra neural ganglion of the tibial nerve have been located within the popliteal fossa, and all of these were thought to arise within the nerve. The authors report a case of a recurrent tibial intraneural ganglion in which a connec tion to the proximal tibiofibular joint was demonstrated on magnetic resona nce (MR) images and at surgery. Surgical ligation of the articular branch a nd evacuation of the cyst led to symptomatic relief, and an MR image obtain ed 1 year after surgery documented no recurrence. This case reinforces the fact that surgeons need to consider and search for an articular connection in all cases of intraneural ganglia, especially in those that have recurred .