Ganglion Cyst

What Is a Ganglion Cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous, fluid-filled swelling that develops when the inner lining of a joint or tendon sheath bulges through a weakened portion of its outer capsule — somewhat like an inner tube pushing through a hole in a tyre. The cyst contains a jellylike lubricating fluid similar in composition to synovial fluid.

These cysts commonly appear on the wrist (dorsal or volar side), fingers, or near the foot/ankle, though they can emerge around other joints as well. Many ganglia change size over time, sometimes feeling firm, sometimes soft, and may cause symptoms when they press on adjacent structures. The image shows the typical location of a ganglion cyst on the wrist.

Symptoms of Ganglion Cyst & When to Seek Care

Typical presentations include:

• A visible or palpable lump beneath the skin, usually round or oval
• Fluctuating size — may expand with activity or shrink at rest
• Discomfort, aching, or pressure in some cases
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness if a nearby nerve is compressed
• Impaired motion or functional limitation when the cyst interferes with joints or tendons

You should consider medical evaluation if the cyst becomes painful, grows rapidly, restricts movement, or causes neurologic symptoms (numbness/tingling).

How We Diagnose a Ganglion Cyst

At CityMed, diagnosing a ganglion typically begins with clinical examination. Key steps may include:

1. Physical assessment — size, location, consistency, relationship to joint/tendon, transillumination (shining light through the lump)
2. Imaging as needed
    - Ultrasound to confirm fluid content or identify hidden (occult) cysts
    - MRI if complex anatomy or suspicion of alternate diagnoses
    - X-rays mainly to rule out bony lesions or associated arthritis

Through imaging and exam, we differentiate ganglia from other soft tissue masses (lipoma, tenosynovial tumors, etc.).

Ganglion Cyst Treatment Options

We tailor treatment based on your symptoms, cyst behavior, and preferences. Options include:

Observation (“Watch & Wait”)

If the cyst is painless and not interfering with function, monitoring is often suitable. Many ganglion cysts remain stable or even resolve on their own over time.

Aspiration & Cortisone Injection

For symptomatic cysts, we may remove the fluid via needle aspiration, often followed by injection of corticosteroid into the cyst lining to encourage collapse. This procedure is minimally invasive and typically done under local anesthetic.

However, recurrence is common because the cyst’s stalk or root remains intact.

Surgical Excision

When conservative treatment fails, or symptoms persist, surgical removal is considered. At CityMed, our experienced clinicians perform ganglion removal surgery under local anesthetic in our purpose-built procedure theatre.

We perform the procedure under local anesthetic in our purpose-built procedure theatre.

• The cyst and its stalk (connection to joint or tendon sheath) are excised to lower the chance of recurrence.
  Post-operative care involves wound care, physiotherapy, and gradual return to activity.

Why Choose CityMed for Your Ganglion Cyst Treatment?

• Safe local anesthetic procedures in a dedicated, sterile setting
• Experienced clinicians skilled in hand, wrist, and soft tissue procedures
• Patient-centered care — we review all options (from observation to surgery)
• Clear communication — we explain benefits, risks, and recurrence rates
• Follow-up support & rehabilitation to restore function

FAQs

Will the ganglion cyst go away on its own?
Yes — many ganglion cysts stay stable or regress spontaneously over months to years, especially if they’re asymptomatic.

Does aspiration always work?
Not always. Because the cyst’s “root” often remains, fluid often recurs. Some cysts require multiple aspirations before they resolve (or may not).

Is surgery painful? Will I have scars?
Surgical excision under local anesthetic is generally well tolerated. A small scar is expected, usually in a concealed location. Risk of complications is low when performed by experienced practitioners.

What is the recurrence rate after surgery?
Recurrence is lower compared to aspiration, especially when the cyst stalk is removed. However, recurrence is still possible when complete excision is not achieved.

Can I continue using my wrist/fingers during treatment?
We usually encourage gentle, non-painful movement except immediately post-procedure. Immobilization with a splint may help symptom control.

If you're experiencing a lump in your wrist, hand, finger, or foot and believe it might be a ganglion cyst — or if you have pain, limitation, or cosmetic concern — please contact CityMed. We’re happy to evaluate and guide you on the most appropriate treatment plan.

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