Ganglion Cyst

Ganglion cysts are lumps that are filled with a gel-like fluid. They’re usually smooth and round, and their appearance can be changeable. They can be very firm and may be mistaken for a bony lump. They’re often painless, but there may be pain due to the underlying cause, for example, a worn or inflamed joint or tendon. 

Common locations of ganglion cysts are:

• back of the wrist – this is the most common site for a ganglion cyst, and these usually arise from an issue in the wrist joint 

• front of the wrist – these usually develop near the base of the thumb, and may stem from a problem with either the wrist joint or tendon

• back of the finger tip – these are often associated with underlying arthritis, and are also known as a mucoid cyst

Ganglion cysts are formed when fluid leaks from a joint or a tendon and accumulates in a sac. The cause of a ganglion cyst is not always known, but they’re often associated with a degenerative change that’s affecting the tendon or joint where they appear. Often, this change is from chronic wear or arthritis, but occasionally, it can follow trauma or injury to the joint.

Our orthopaedic specialists will be able to diagnose ganglion cysts at your initial consultation by looking at the appearance of any lumps and their location. Sometimes a scan, such as an MRI or ultrasound, may be recommended to check the extent and size of a lump.

Ganglion cysts can’t always be prevented, but there are things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing them. 

• avoid repetitive strain – if a hobby or your work involves repetitive hand or wrist movements, minimise strain on the joints by taking breaks

• use wrist supports or protection – in activities that carry a risk of joint injury or repetitive strain 

• maintain good joint health – seek help for any joint injuries or inflammation that you notice

Ganglion cysts often go away on their own and do not lead to complications. 

However, possible complications include: 

• pain

• restricted movement and grip strength

• pressure, tingling, and numbness if the cyst presses on a nerve 

• cosmetic concerns

Ganglion cysts will often spontaneously disappear or become painless over time, so they can usually be left untreated. 

If treatment is needed, your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the most appropriate options with you, tailored to the location of your ganglion cyst and the symptoms it is causing. 

Treatment options include:

• aspiration – this involves drawing off the fluid with a needle. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. Aspiration can flatten the lump, and provide temporary relief of symptoms, but the cyst will usually reappear over time

• surgical excision – this involves removing the lump completely, either under a local or general anaesthetic. The cyst may still return after surgery 

At Welbeck, our orthopaedic surgeons are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.