Ganglion Cyst

A ganglion cyst is a firm fluid-filled lump that can suddenly appear on the front or back of the wrist, or at the base of the finger. These cysts grow from normal tissue in the wrist and fingers and range in size. Some may become very large, at which point they are usually painful and patients seek medical attention. Although ganglion cysts are common, they do not spread and they do not become cancerous. They are the most common “tumor” (tumor means swelling) of the hand. They can occur after an injury, but many times it is not known why they grow. Ganglion cysts can change in size and go away on their own.

A ganglion cyst is sometimes painful, especially when it first occurs or when they become large. Constantly using your hand or wrist may make the cyst enlarge and hurt more. Some hand and wrist movements may become more difficult. Tendons and joints are lined with a tissue called synovium. This tissue produces a thick fluid that keeps the joints and tendons gliding easily. Sometimes the tissue balloons out from the joint or tendons and forms a cyst, known as a ganglion cyst. As the cyst fills with fluid and grows, it appears as a lump that you can see and feel. Sometimes puncturing the cyst and aspirating the fluid is an effective treatment. A cortisone injection may be administered along with needle aspiration. However, cysts tend to recur after needle aspiration. Some patients desire puncturing the cyst with a needle prior to agreeing to surgery, but if the cyst remains, then surgery is the definitive treatment. Surgery can be performed under a local or regional anesthesia, with intravenous sedation, in the operating room, as an outpatient. If the cyst bothers you enough, then surgery should be performed.

Following surgery, the hand is usually fully recovered by 2-6 weeks, depending upon the size and location of the cyst, and depending upon the requirements of your hand. Occupational therapy, available in our office, is also usually required. Sometimes, ganglion cysts can come back.