Baker's cyst

Alternative names:

popliteal cyst

Treatment:

No treatment is necessary, because Baker cysts resolve spontaneously. Surgery is generally not necessary unless the cyst is extremely large or painful. Aspiration will decrease cyst size but generally the cyst recurs.

Expectations (prognosis):

The cyst disappears without intervention.

Complications:

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if there is a swelling behind the knee that becomes large or painful; or if there are signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage, fever).