Spinal synovial cysts are benign fluid-filled sacs in the joints of the spine.
They form because of degeneration or injury (as a way to protect the injury).
These cysts are not uncommon.
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They may cause pain and lead to other spinal conditions.
Symptoms
For most people, synovial cysts won’t cause any symptoms.
If a synovial cyst is compressing a nerve, it can cause back pain, weakness, or numbness.
The severity of symptoms depends on the size and location of a cyst.
Most of the time cysts causeradiculopathydue to irritation of aspinal nerve.
Effects of a synovial cyst can include:
Synovial cysts in the mid-back and neck are rare.
In the process,the synoviummay form a cyst.
It’s a sign of instability in the spine.
Instability can occur at any area of the spine, but L4-5 is the most common level.
This segment of the spine tends to bear the most weight.
If instability occurs, a cyst can develop.
However, it is important to note that cysts can form without instability.
Treatment
Some cysts remain small and cause few, if any, symptoms.
Cysts only need treatment if they are causing symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes
Your healthcare professionals may suggest that you avoid certain activities that aggravate your symptoms.
You might be advised to stretch and to begin exercises that do not exacerbate your condition.
Physical therapy or occupational therapy may also be recommended.
People who undergo aspiration often need repeat procedures if the fluid build-up returns.
Epiduralcorticosteroidinjections can reduce inflammation and may be a suitable option to relieve significant pain.
It’s recommended that patients receive no more than three corticosteroid injections per year.
There are several surgical options that range from minimally invasive endoscopic procedures to larger, open surgeries.
Surgical options include:
Most people experience immediate pain relief following a laminectomy or hemilaminectomy.
Fusion can take six to nine months to fully heal.
These surgeries are not without risk.
Complications may include infection, bleeding, and injury to the spinal cord or nerve root.
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