Pretibial Ganglion Cyst Secondary to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Its Conservative Management: A Two-Case Report

Keywords: Cyst, pretibial ganglion, anterior cruciate ligament

Abstract

Introduction: We present two cases of pretibial ganglion cyst, an uncommon postoperative complication after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. In both cases, hamstring autografts and biodegradable interference screws were used for fixation. We discuss the rarity and multifactorial etiology of this complication, including fixation material and graft micromotion. Both conservative (aspiration) and surgical (curettage and bone grafting) treatment options are reviewed; however, surgery appears to be more effective in preventing recurrence. The choice of fixation material is highlighted as a key preventive factor. Conclusion: Management should be individualized, and close follow-up is essential.

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Author Biographies

Tania Alvarado Chávez, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General “Dr. Enrique Ortega Moreira”, Durán, Ecuador
Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General “Dr. Enrique Ortega Moreira”, Durán, Ecuador. Orthopedic surgeon, specialist in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery. She specializes in sports injuries; knee reconstruction; anterior cruciate ligament and meniscal injuries; and disorders of the hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. She is also involved in the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Her practice focuses on the management of joint degeneration and cartilage preservation, including cartilage repair techniques.
Cecilia Rentería Lascano, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital del Día “Mariana de Jesús”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital del Día “Mariana de Jesús”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Roy Luna Alvarado, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General del Norte de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General del Norte de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Raisa Vélez Albán, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General “Dr. Enrique Ortega Moreira”, Durán, Ecuador
Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Hospital General “Dr. Enrique Ortega Moreira”, Durán, Ecuador

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Published
2026-04-30
How to Cite
Alvarado Chávez, T., Rentería Lascano, C., Luna Alvarado, R., & Vélez Albán, R. V. (2026). Pretibial Ganglion Cyst Secondary to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Its Conservative Management: A Two-Case Report. Revista De La Asociación Argentina De Ortopedia Y Traumatología, 91(2), 165-176. https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2026.91.2.2151
Section
Case Presentations