What is a wrist ganglion?
A wrist ganglion is a benign swelling on the front or back of the wrist. Another word for ganglion is also mucous cyst. A ganglion is a sac filled with synovial fluid or fluid from a tendon sheath. When (too much) fluid is produced in a joint or tendon sheath, it often seeks the path of least resistance. If there is a weak spot in the joint capsule or tendon sheath, it bulges out due to the high pressure of the fluid, creating a ganglion. A ganglion often feels hard and tense.
Increased fluid production in the joint or tendon sheath does not always have an identifiable cause. It can come from overuse, instability or wear and tear, but in many cases it also occurs spontaneously. In addition to arising spontaneously, a wrist ganglion can also spontaneously shrink or even disappear.
A wrist ganglion is relatively more common in women.
What are the symptoms of a ganglion?
Usually there are no pain symptoms with a wrist ganglion. If there is a large ganglion, it is often sensitive when bumped. If the ganglion is on the back of the wrist, there may be symptoms when bending the wrist far back and when leaning on the wrist.
Diagnosis
Based on the pattern of symptoms and physical examination, the diagnosis is made. Sometimes an ultrasound is performed to assess the exact location and size of the swelling.
If the ganglion is diagnosed, then depending on the severity of the symptoms and treatment plan is drawn up.
Treatment
Non-operative (conservative) treatment
If there are no or very few symptoms, then often wait and see. There is a good chance that a ganglion will shrink or disappear on its own. By avoiding bothersome movements or adjusting activities, symptoms may improve.
If there are mild symptoms and a so-called instability or laxity (too much slack) in the wrist is present, you will be referred to the hand therapist to make the wrist stronger. This will reduce the symptoms and may also reduce the size of the ganglion.
In the past, a ganglion was sometimes drained with a needle. The chances of a ganglion returning after this procedure are very high and therefore this treatment is not advised in our clinic.
Surgical treatment
If there are functional complaints, that is, complaints that interfere with daily activities, surgery may be considered. These complaints may include pain, movement restriction or decreased strength.
The surgery is done in day surgery. The entire arm is numbed by a nerve block or general anesthesia is applied. An incision is made at the level of the ganglion and the ganglion is removed. The wound is sutured with stitches that can be removed after 10-14 days. After surgery, you will have a pressure bandage for several days. After surgery, the wrist may be used and loaded again according to your symptoms. You are advised not to do any heavy lifting for the first few weeks.
During the consultation hour, you will receive detailed information about post-treatment and recovery, as well as an information brochure about the procedure.
