Intraligamentous ganglion cyst of the anterior cruciate ligament [about a case]

Unknowlogement: Ganglion cysts have been reported in all joints, with varying frequency in location. A few cases have been described concerning ganglia of the anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] particularly intraligamentous cysts

Aim: The aim of the study is to report specific particularities of intraligamentous ganglion cyst of the ACL

Case: We report a new case of intraligamentous ganglion cyst of the anterior cruciate ligament treated successfully with arthroscopic aspiration followed by partial excision of the cyst wall after MRI examination. The MR findings, clinical features and arthroscopic findings were evaluated comparatively. Diagnosis was confirmed by means of histological study after arthroscopic excision. The cyst was fluid-filled, with low T1-weighted signal intensity and high T2- weighted signal intensity. Pain was the most frequent clinical sign without any history of trauma. Postarthroscopy outcome was painless. Histologic diagnosis corresponded to ganglion cyst

Conclusion: An intraligamentous ganglion cyst of the ACR is extremely rare and suggests some diagnostic and therapeutic particularities

Apport et indications des techniques d'imagerie dans la pathologie de l'appareil locomoteur

Imaging is necessary in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal diseases and X rays is the first step of this morphological exploration. Ultrasonography is cost effectiveness, without radiation and have to constitute the second step of the exploration of the smooth tissue [tendon, muscle, sheath, synovium and superficial ligaments]. Computed tomography with its new technological progress is very effective in the study of the cortical bone. Magnetic resonance imaging, a non irradiating but costly technique, becames inevitable in several osteo articular affections. It often makes the examination of last intention to compensate for the inadequacy of ultrasonography and computed tomography