ABOUT US
ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Shoulder and Knee Specialist
WRIST GANGLION CYST KANDIL NOTES
INTRODUCTION​
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Ganglion cysts are benign masses most commonly encountered in the wrist, but which may occur in any joint
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They can affect any age group
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The are more common in gymnasts likely due to repetitive use of the wrist
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70% of ganglion cysts are found in the back or dorsal aspect of the wrist & communicate with the joint via a pedicle or stalk
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Ganglion cysts are benign, non-cancerous, and generally harmless
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They can appear, disappear, and change in size over time
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People would call these “Bible cysts” as they would use a hard book to try to rupture the cyst
CAUSES
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A history of trauma is present in at least 10% of wrist ganglion cyst cases
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In the majority of causes, the cause is unknown
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
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Wrist ganglion cysts are usually 1–2 cm soft and compressible masses that are mobile
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There is no warmth or redness or associated skin changes
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Aching is common but pain and tenderness are less common
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Wrists on the front or volar aspect of the wrist may cause irritation of the ulnar or median nerve leading to numbness and/or tingling
TREATMENT​​
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Observation is the most common treatment in the majority of patients if it doesn't hurt or interfere with activities of daily living or quality of life
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Wrist bracing and immobilization has been shown to be helpful
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If the cyst becomes associated with pain, interference with activities, and an increase in size, intervention may be appropriate
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Aspiration can be considered by removing the cyst with a needle. Studies show that repeat aspirations demonstrate a success rate of 30–50%
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Surgery is reserved for cases that are refractory to conservative treatment. Surgery involves the excision of the entire ganglion complex, including cyst, pedicle, and a cuff of the adjacent joint capsule, with recurrence rates in the 7-10% range for dorsal cysts and slightly higher for volar cysts
PREVENTION
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The best way to prevent a wrist ganglion cyst is to minimize repetitive wrist motion and exertional activities