Paramensical cyst with no apparent presence of meniscal tear?

[samuelynas]

I have a 2.5x1cm parameniscal cyst arising from the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus. However, there is no associated visible tear of the meniscus on 2 separate MRI scans.

While 2 weeks ago, I had considerable pain and discomfort after exercise, I have since had no symptoms during or after exercise, only sometimes feeling that something is a bit "off."

My questions are as follows: What is the likelihood that an underlying meniscal tear is simply being missed on two separate MRIs, especially considering that any signs of the same were looked for meticulously? I have had a positive McMurray test in the past, but I understand this could also be caused by the cyst, for instance? If there is no underlying meniscal tear, would aspiration of the cyst theoretically mean that it would not return, given that there is no tear? What would be the benefits of surgery in this situation, and how do they stack up against the risks?

For background information, I also seem to have had the slightest of acl sprains from the initial injury, as well as effusion in the joint.

[specialmom]

Are you a runner? I do think these cysts are very common.  I'm one who believes in conservative treatment approaches. So, I'd aspirate the cyst first to see if that solves the issue.  Much preferable to surgery in my opinion.  Is there a chance there is an unseen tear on the MRI's?  Well, sure.  But two MRI's with the objective to find a tear means that you should at this point assume there isn't one. So, then how to treat the cyst?  Surgery is always very invasive, requires recovery time, can result in scar tissue, etc.  So, I'd go the less invasive route to see if it solves your problem.  Good luck