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Elbow cyst
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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[ Causes of Elbow Joint Cyst
Causes of elbow joint cysts may be related to elbow trauma or constant physical overload of this area. The exact causes of cysts in the elbow joint have not been fully identified. There is an assumption that the development of cysts may be associated with diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms of Elbow Joint Cyst
Symptoms of an elbow joint cyst manifest themselves in the form of a tumor-like formation filled with fluid in the elbow area. The cyst is benign, its boundaries are clearly defined, and the skin does not fuse with the neoplasm.
The process of formation of a cyst of the elbow joint may proceed without any symptoms. There may be no pain even when palpating the affected area. As a rule, pain is felt when moving the elbow joint. Nearby tissues in the presence of a cyst may become less sensitive and also swell.
Diagnosis of elbow joint cyst
Diagnosis of elbow joint cysts is performed using palpation, ultrasound, X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging and puncturing the cyst to analyze its contents. During diagnosis, the general condition of the joint and the size of the formation are assessed to correctly select treatment tactics.
Treatment of elbow joint cyst
Treatment of an elbow joint cyst, depending on the size and progression of the formation, can be conservative or surgical. In the first case, the patient is prescribed a cyst puncture. To do this, it is punctured and the internal contents are pumped out with a special needle. Then, agents that prevent the development of inflammatory processes are introduced into the cavity of the formation, and a tight bandage is applied to the affected area. When using this method of treatment, a relapse of the disease is often noted.
During surgical intervention, the neoplasm is completely removed under local anesthesia. The most gentle method of eliminating an elbow joint cyst is endoscopic removal, which minimizes the risk of tissue injury.