Ganglion Cyst | Ganglion of the Wrist
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A
ganglion
is also known as a ganglion cyst. It is a
fluid-filled protrusion of a joint capsule or tendon sheath
.
A ganglion is a cystic, benign structure filled with synovial fluid.
The reason for this is that synovial fluid can pass outwards from the interior of the joint through a stalk.
The ganglion grows and its contents can become increasingly firm over time.
Ganglion cysts most commonly develop in the region of the hand, though they can also occur at the foot or knee.
Pain in the hand or wrist can sometimes be caused by a ganglion cyst.
As a rule, however, a ganglion does not cause any pain.
Most patients are bothered less by discomfort and more by the appearance of the lump, whether larger or smaller in size.
What treatment options are available for a ganglion cyst?
If the ganglion causes no symptoms, a watch-and-wait approach may be taken.
This is because some of these cysts can resolve spontaneously on their own.
Surgical removal of the ganglion is the most reliable treatment option.
For a dorsal ganglion, the incision is made transversely along the skin crease; for a volar ganglion, a longitudinal incision is used.
As it is essential to remove the ganglion completely during this procedure, the joint capsule at the depth of the wrist is opened. You will then be fitted with a splint, though you will be able to move your fingers immediately. Full loading of the wrist is permitted after approximately one month.
In 10–20% of cases, however, the ganglion may recur.
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