Synergy Health Partners

Ganglions (Cysts) of the Wrist

Definition: Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that most commonly develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists or hands. These cysts are filled with a jelly-like fluid and can vary in size. They are typically round or oval and are among the most common benign soft-tissue masses.

Causes:

  • Joint or Tendon Irritation: Often associated with repetitive stress or irritation of the joint or tendon sheath.
  • Injury: Previous trauma or injury to the wrist can contribute to cyst formation.
  • Age and Gender: Ganglion cysts are more common in younger individuals, particularly women aged 20-40.
  • Unknown: In many cases, the exact cause of ganglion cysts is not known.

Symptoms:

  • Visible lump or swelling on the wrist, often on the back of the hand but can also occur on the palm side
  • Pain or discomfort, particularly when using the wrist or hand
  • Changes in size, with cysts sometimes becoming larger with increased activity and shrinking with rest
  • Numbness or tingling if the cyst presses on a nerve

Diagnosis:

  • Physical Examination: Assessing the cyst’s size, location, and tenderness.
  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions.
  • Aspiration: Extracting fluid from the cyst with a needle to analyze it and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:

  1. Non-Surgical Treatments:

    • Observation: Many ganglion cysts are painless and may disappear on their own without treatment.
    • Immobilization: Wearing a wrist brace or splint to reduce movement and encourage the cyst to shrink.
    • Aspiration: Draining the fluid from the cyst with a needle, though cysts may recur.
  2. Surgical Treatments:

    • Cyst Excision: Surgical removal of the ganglion cyst, often recommended if the cyst is painful, recurrent, or limits wrist function. This procedure can be done using traditional open surgery or arthroscopy.

Prognosis: Ganglion cysts are generally harmless and noncancerous. Many people experience relief from symptoms with non-surgical treatments. However, recurrence is common, especially if only aspiration is performed. Surgical removal has a lower recurrence rate, but it also carries the risks associated with any surgical procedure. Regular monitoring and follow-up care can help manage any recurring cysts and ensure optimal wrist function.

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Port Huron

Southfield

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Port Huron

Southfield

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Port Huron

Southfield

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Port Huron

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Port Huron

Southfield

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Livonia

Sterling Heights

Livonia

Sterling Heights