Detailed Case Reports of Surgical Treatment for Intraneural Ganglion Cysts

Background: Intraneural ganglion cysts are nonneoplastic mucinous cysts that form by the accumulation of thick mucinous fluid in the epineurium of peripheral nerves. Symptoms arise from mechanical compression of adjacent nerve fascicles from the intraneural ganglion cyst, and include local or radiating pain, paresthesias, weakness, and muscle atrophy. Methods: Retrospective review of three cases of symptomatic intraneural ganglion cysts affecting the upper and lower extremity. Results: In our cases, the intraneural ganglion cysts were completely decompressed with resection of the articular branches, leading to improvement in the patient's symptoms. Conclusions: Treatment of intraneural ganglion cysts requires an understanding of the underlying anatomy and pathophysiology; accurate early diagnosis is important and can lead to timely treatment and better outcomes.