What is a Ganglion Cyst?
A Ganglion cyst is a type of tumor that is located on top of a joint. A Ganglion cyst can also develop in a way that covers a tendon, which is the tissue that connects muscle to bone. Like other types of cysts, a Ganglion cyst is made up of a sac of liquid that contains a thick, jelly-like material.
The most common place for a Ganglion cyst to develop is on the back of the hand at the wrist joint, or on the palm side of the wrist.
If you or a loved one are experiencing wrist pain that may be caused by a Ganglion cyst, an SOS wrist pain specialist can help.
Ganglion Cyst Symptoms
Symptoms of a Ganglion cyst include:
- The cyst looks like a bump that changes in size
- The cyst is soft and doesn't move
- Swelling appears gradually or suddenly, and may reduce then return later
- Wrist pain
Additionally, some patients may experience no symptoms other than the visible cyst.
Ganglion Cyst Causes
One possible cause of a Ganglion cyst is damage to the tissue of a joint, causing the joint to break down and form small cysts that then form in to a single, larger cyst.
Another possible cause of a Ganglion cyst is a deformity in a joint capsule or tendon, allowing the joint tissue to bulge.
Ganglion Cyst Treatment
While some Ganglion cysts can disappear naturally, Ganglion cysts can also risk further complications, so it's best to seek medical attention.
Some forms of Ganglion cyst treatment include:
- Using a needle to remove the liquid in the cyst, then injecting anti-inflammatory medication,
- Ganglion cyst removal surgery
Ganglion Cyst Surgery
Patients whose medical provider has used a needle to remove liquid in the cyst with the cyst re-appearing after treatment may benefit from Ganglion cyst removal surgery. Additionally, Ganglion cyst surgery may be best for patients who experience persistent wrist pain, or who have experienced a loss of function in their hand or fingers.
See an SOS Wrist Pain Specialist About a Ganglion Cyst
The experienced wrist pain specialists at SOS can help patients who have developed a Ganglion cyst. SOS can diagnose, care for and treat you or your loved one's Ganglion cyst.