Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are the most common form of lump or mass in the hand. Cysts can appear in many locations in the upper extremity but are most common around the wrist and at the end of the finger adjacent to the nail.
Causes and risk factors
Most common in younger people between the ages of 15-40
Women are more often affected
Common among gymnasts or athletes in sports that apply continuous pressure to the wrist
Cysts on the finger joint are often associated with arthritis
Symptoms
Visible lump, although some cysts remain hidden under the skin
Pain due to pressure on the joint
Large cysts can cause concern about appearance
Diagnosis and treatment
Ganglion cysts often don’t require surgery and may disappear or reduce in size with time. Initially treatment involves rest, bracing, activity modification and over the counter pain medication. The cyst can be aspirated, where the skin around the cyst is anesthetized and the fluid inside is drained with a needle though the cyst will often recur. Surgical treatment can be considered at the patient’s discretion if the non operative treatment options do not provide relief, though even with surgery ganglion cyst are known to occasionally recur. Dr. Holt will discuss treatment options with you to develop an optimal plan.
Ganglion Cyst Excision Surgical Information/Post Operative Instructions:
Ganglion Cyst Excision Surgical Info Sheet
Additional Information/Links:
