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 (see Figure 2). The ganglion cyst often resembles a water balloon on a stalk (see Figure 3), 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. They occur in patients of all ages. 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 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, as they frequently
disappear spontaneously. If the cyst becomes painful, limits activity, or is
otherwise unacceptable, several 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.
Aspiration is a very simple procedure, but recurrence of the cyst is
common. 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 usually yield good results. Surgical treatment is
generally successful although cysts may recur. Your surgeon will discuss the
best treatment options for you.
Figure 1: Ganglion top side (dorsum) wrist
Figure 2: Ganglion end joint of finger (mucous cyst)
Figure 3: Cross-section of wrist showing stalk (or root) of ganglion.
© 2006 American Society for Surgery of the Hand...(taken adapted modified
from the ASSH website)
ganglion.pdf