Ganglion Cysts

Definition

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled cyst that often presents as a visible lump on the hand or wrist. A ganglion cyst emerges from a leak in the joint capsule, usually the wrist.

A ganglion cyst may increase in size due to heightened wrist activity alternatively decreasing in size with resting the wrist. Pain around the cyst is relatively common and can vary in intensity if the cyst is sitting on a nerve or area of heavy trauma.

Alternate names

• Gangolian cyst
• Bible cyst
• Mucous cysts
• Synovial cyst
• Synovial fluid sac
• Gideon's disease
• Wrist ganglion
• Dorsal wrist ganglion
• Occult ganglion cyst

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Though there is no definitive cause, ganglion cysts are commonly found after trauma, such as sports injuries, or alongside arthritis. While they can occur on the ankle or foot, they are more common in the wrist or hand. These fluid-filled cysts may appear as a small lump under the skin, or in cases of occult ganglion cyst, may be found during a physical examination or MRI.

Tests and treatments

Ganglion cysts can be treated by a hand surgeon or orthopaedic surgeon using cyst excision. Surgical alternatives may be effective, including cyst drainage or wearing a wrist brace or other immobilizing device to lower discomfort and swelling. However, non-surgical alternatives carry a greater risk of having a cyst recur compared with full cyst removal.

Recovery time from ganglion cyst excision can take between two weeks to two months, depending on the location, size and any surrounding tissue affected.

Why come to UF Health Orthopaedics for ganglion cyst treatment?

At UF Health, our hand surgeons are fellowship-trained on a comprehensive list of conditions and treatments concerning the hands, wrists and upper extremities. Orthopaedic surgery at UF Health is a collaborative effort that includes doctors, surgeons and rehabilitative specialists all working together to ensure each individual patient is treated according to their specific needs.