Ganglion cyst is one of the most common soft tissues swelling of the wrist and hand. Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled swellings overlying a tendon sheath or joint. Most ganglion cysts are found on the dorsal aspect of the wrist.
These cysts vary in size and can range from the size of a pea to a golf ball. The size of the cyst may change over time.
Ganglion cysts are believed to be the result of a herniation of dense connective tissue from ligaments, tendon sheaths, joint capsules, menisci, and bursae.
Ganglion cysts are three times more prevalent in women aged 20 to 40 compared to men.
Ganglion cyst symptoms
- Visible appearance of a lump or swelling along the tendons or joints of wrists or hands.
- Joint pain.
- The cyst is typically firm, rounded, smooth and occasionally painful.
- Sometimes, the cyst can impinge the nerve, resulting in sensory and nerve impairment.
Ganglion cyst diagnosis
Your doctor would first question your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination. Diagnosis is made based on your reported symptoms, physical examination, and investigations.
In patients with a palpable swelling, the transillumination test offers a simple in-office way to differentiate ganglion cysts from solid tumours. Ganglion cysts transilluminate while solid tumours do not.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would be able to differentiate most ganglion cysts from other types of masses in patients with unexplained wrist pain.
Ganglion cyst treatment options
Although ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, they may lead to pain, loss of function and weakness, requiring treatment. Generally, treatment is only advised if the cyst causes pain or limits the range of motion in a joint.
- Observation
- Asymptomatic patients should be reassured and observed.
- More than 50% of individuals may experience spontaneous resolution of ganglion cysts without intervention.
- A brace can also be used on a temporary basis, but its usage should be limited to prevent muscle atrophy that can result from long-term immobilisation.
- Cyst aspiration
- The fluid from the cyst can be removed using a needle during the cyst aspiration procedure.
- However, more than 50% of ganglion cysts treated by aspiration will recur within one year.
- Surgery
- Surgery is recommended for patients with persisting or recurring symptoms despite other treatments.
- It involves either an open or arthroscopic excision of the cyst and its stalk.
- Surgical removal of a ganglion is usually effective, but it may recur if the cyst is not completely excised.
Make an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of ganglion cyst, get in touch with us to find out more about our Orthopaedic Services at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
Gleneagles Hospital works with orthopaedic specialists to assist patients through diagnosis and treatment. The caring and multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals are available for consultation and to provide the best care.
