home doctors Our Practice Education Forms Locations Contact Us
 

Ganglion Cysts

What are ganglion cysts?

Ganglion cysts are very common lumps within the hand and wrist that occur adjacent to joints or tendons. The most common locations are the top of the wrist (see Figure 1), the palm side of the wrist, the base of the finger on the palm side, and the top of the end joint of the finger. The ganglion cyst often resembles a water balloon on a stalk (see Figure 2), and is filled with clear fluid or gel. The cause of these cysts is unknown although they may form in the presence of joint or tendon irritation or mechanical changes. These cysts may change in size or even disappear completely, and they may or may not be painful. These cysts are not cancerous and will not spread to other areas.

How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?

The diagnosis is usually based on the location of the lump and its clinical appearance. They are usually oval or round and may be soft or very firm. Cysts at the base of the finger on the palm side are typically a very firm, pea-sized nodule that is tender to applied pressure, such as when gripping. Light will often pass through these lumps (trans-illumination) and this can assist in the diagnosis. Your physician may request x-rays in order to investigate problems in adjacent joints; cysts at the end joint of the finger frequently have an arthritic bone spur associated with them.

What are the treatment options for ganglion cysts?

Treatment can often be non-surgical. In many cases, these cysts can simply be observed, especially if they are painless. If the cyst becomes painful, limits activity, or is cosmetically unacceptable, other treatment options are available. The use of splints and anti-inflammatory medication can be prescribed in order to decrease pain associated with activities. An aspiration can be performed to remove the fluid from the cyst and decompress it. This requires placing a needle into the cyst, which can be performed in most office settings. If non-surgical options fail to provide relief or if the cyst recurs, surgical alternatives are available. Surgery involves removing the cyst along with a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath (see Figure 3). In the case of wrist ganglion cysts, both traditional open and arthroscopic techniques may yield good results. Surgical treatment is generally successful although cysts may recur. Your surgeon will discuss the best treatment options for you.

Ganglion Image 1
Ganglion top side (dorsum) wrist

Ganglion Image 2
Figure 2: Ganglion end joint of finger (mucous cyst)

Ganglion Image 3
Figure 3: Cross-section of wrist showing stalk (or root) of ganglion.

© 2006 American Society for Surgery of the Hand

Linden Oaks Medical Campus
10 Hagen Drive., Suite 310
Rochester, NY 14625
Ph: 585-922-5840

Rochester General Hospital
Parnell Office Building
1445 Portland Avenue,
Suite G-01
Ph: 585-922-5840

Park Ridge Hospital
1561 Long Pond Road,
Suite 216
Rochester, NY 14626
Ph: 585-368-4879

This website provides only general information. It does not provide information for specific patients. It does not replace medical or other advice offered by health care providers, professionals or physicians. This web site provides links to other web sites. This is done solely as a convenience to visitors. This web site has no responsibility for or control over the content and accuracy of other web sites.

Home | Doctors | Our Practice | Education | Forms | Locations | Contact Us | Site Map

Copyright © 2007 Plastic Surgery Group of Rochester, All rights reserved.
Rochester Hand Center website developed by Savvy Monkey LLC