Outcomes following surgery for peroneal intraneural ganglion cysts

Introduction: The objective of this study was to answer the typical questions from patients regarding the likely neurologic outcome and likelihood of recurrence when discussing peroneal intraneural ganglion cysts preoperatively. Methods: Retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent surgery for a peroneal intraneural ganglion cyst between January 1, 2000, and April 1, 2017, was performed. Postoperative neurologic outcomes and radiologic recurrences are reported. Results: There were 65 patients. Average clinical follow-up was 14 months. Median dorsiflexion and eversion preoperatively were 2/5 and 4/5, respectively. Median dorsiflexion and eversion at last follow-up postoperatively were 5/5. Radiologic recurrence occurred in 6 (9%) patients, all extraneural. Discussion: The data support excellent postoperative motor outcomes, despite frequent dense weakness of peroneal-innervated musculature preoperatively. The surgical approach appears to eliminate risk of intraneural recurrence and minimizes risk of extraneural recurrence.