Ganglion Cyst

A ganglion cyst is a swelling that mostly occurs in the hand and wrist and grows. This cyst is most often on the upper side of the wrist. Less frequently, it is located on the palm side of the wrist, above the end joints of the fingers and on the palm of the fingers. Pain is felt during periods of onset or during activities where the hand is constantly strained. Their size can change over time and sometimes they disappear spontaneously.

What is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a swelling that mostly occurs in the hand and wrist and grows. This cyst is most often on the upper side of the wrist. Less frequently, it is located on the palm side of the wrist, above the end joints of the fingers and on the palm of the fingers. Pain is felt during periods of onset or during activities where the hand is constantly strained. Their size can change over time and sometimes they disappear spontaneously. These cysts are not malignant tumors.

What is the diagnostic process of ganglion cyst?

On detailed physical examination, the ganglion is diagnosed based on the location and appearance of the cyst. Doctors also perform a radiologic examination to look for possible joint problems.

How is a ganglion cyst treated?

A ganglion cyst is usually painless and does not require treatment. If you do not have any symptoms, no treatment is needed. It is sufficient to monitor it periodically. If the cyst causes pain or prevents joint movement, thus limiting daily activities or if it has a poor aesthetic appearance, it needs to be treated. In the treatment of ganglion cysts, aspiration, in which the fluid in the cyst is drained with a syringe, is among the treatment options. Another option is splinting. Since activity can cause the ganglion cyst to grow, the area is temporarily immobilized with a splint. As the cyst shrinks, it relieves pressure on the nerves and reduces pain. After these non-surgical methods, the cyst and symptoms are likely to recur. If these interventions fail, the cyst is surgically removed. The aim of surgery is to remove the cyst together with its source. Therefore, it is necessary to remove part of the joint capsule or tendon sheath together with the ganglion cyst during the surgical procedure. Splinting after surgery prevents the sensitivity and swelling that some people experience. Surgical removal of the ganglion cyst is one of the most successful treatment methods and is less likely to recur.

What should not be done?

Hitting a ganglion cyst with a heavy object is not a good solution. This is because the force of the blow can damage the surrounding structures in your hand or foot. Also, do not try to “pop” the cyst by piercing it with a needle. This is unlikely to be effective and can lead to infection.