Ganglion Cyst

Ganglion Cyst Overview

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous mass or lump in the hand or wrist. Cysts come and go and usually do not produce symptoms. When symptoms do present, they may make it difficult to move the hand or wrist without discomfort or pain. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) hand specialist should be made as soon as possible.

Symptoms & Causes

Ganglion cyst of the hand/wrist symptoms include:

  • Pain
  • Tingling (when the cyst compresses a nerve)
  • Weakness

Many patients also complain that the cyst is aesthetically unpleasing.

The ganglion cyst of the hand/wrist cause is not known. Gender is a risk factor as women are more likely than men to have a Ganglion cyst of the hand/wrist.

Common Treatments:

After a thorough evaluation, a CONA hand specialist may recommend:

  • Observing the cyst to see if it goes away
  • Temporarily immobilizing the wrist and hand
  • Aspirating the cyst to decrease its size

Surgery may be recommended when these treatment options are not effective. A CONA hand specialist carefully excises the cyst. Symptoms are relieved and the cyst does not return.

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