Ganglion Cyst Removal
A ganglion cyst is a benign lesion and the most common mass that develops in the hand. The cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form from almost any joint or tendon sheath in the wrist and hand. Ganglion cysts are thought to be the result of trauma or degeneration of the tissue layer responsible for producing synovial fluid. Synovial fluid lubricates the joint or tendon sheath. The cyst arises from accumulation of this fluid outside the joint or tendon sheath in a sac or cyst. In addition to being cosmetically unattractive, ganglion cysts may limit movement in the wrist or hand joints and produce pain from pressing on local soft tissues. Ganglion cysts of the last finger joint may cause deformities of the fingernail. Ganglion cysts at the base of the finger may produce pain when grasping. On rare occasions, ganglion cysts may cause changes in the bone. Surgical removal is the most reliable method of treating a ganglion cyst. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. Local anesthesia is commonly used for removal of ganglions in the finger. Ganglion cysts involving the wrist usually require a regional or general anesthetic. The ganglion is removed through an incision directly over the area of swelling. The cyst is removed along with a small portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath from which it has arisen. Treatment for some types of ganglion cysts also involves removal of osteophytes (bony spurs) that may be associated with them. Usual recovery time following surgery for ganglion cysts ranges from two to three weeks for small ganglions of the finger, and six to eight weeks for ganglions involving the wrist. Patients should consult their surgeon for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.