Ganglion Cyst

A ganglion cyst is a benign, fluid-filled lump that commonly forms along the tendons or joints of the wrist or hand.

A visible or palpable lump, usually on the back of the wrist, that may fluctuate in size and can cause aching or weakness with wrist movement.

Fluid leaks from a nearby joint or tendon sheath and collects in a sac-like cyst; the exact trigger is often unclear.

See a hand surgeon if the lump is painful, growing, limiting movement, or causing concern about its nature.

Clinical examination and transillumination to confirm the fluid-filled nature of the lump.

Ultrasound confirms the cystic nature and can rule out other soft-tissue masses; MRI is occasionally used for deeper or atypical cysts.

Observation, activity modification, and aspiration of the cyst fluid, sometimes combined with a steroid injection.

Surgery is considered when the cyst is painful, recurs after aspiration, or interferes with function.

Surgical excision removes the cyst and its stalk back to the joint or tendon sheath of origin, performed as a day case.

Most patients resume light activities within one to two weeks, with full recovery over four to six weeks.

Surgical excision has a lower recurrence rate than aspiration alone, though recurrence can still occur.

Infection, scar tenderness, stiffness, and a small chance of recurrence.