Ganglion
Introduction
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that usually develops near a joint or tendon. The cyst can range fromthe size of a pea to the size of a golf ball.
Ganglion cysts look and feel like a smooth lump under the skin. They're made up of a thick, jelly-like fluid called synovial fluid, which surrounds joints and tendons to lubricate and cushion them during movement.
Ganglions can occur alongside any joint in the body, but are most commonon the wrist (particularly the back of the wrist), and the hand and fingers.
Ganglions are harmless, but can sometimes be painful. If they don't cause any pain or discomfort, they can be left alone and may disappear without treatment, although this can take a number of years.
It's not clear why ganglions form. They seem to occur when the synovial fluid that surrounds a joint or tendon leaks out and collects in a sac.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Nov 2016
Introduction
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops near a joint or tendon. The cyst can range from the size of a pea to the size of a golf ball.
Treatment options
Treatment is usually only recommended if the cyst causes pain or affects the range of movement in a joint.The two main treatment options for a ganglion cyst are: draining fluid out of the cyst with a
Availability on the NHS
Mostclinical commissioninggroups (CCGs)don't fund treatment for ganglion cysts unless they cause significant pain or disrupt daily activities.If you want to have a cyst removed for cosmetic reasons, y
Aspiration
Aspiration is usually carried out in the outpatient department of your local hospital or GP surgery. Your doctor will remove as much of the contents of the ganglion as possible with a needle and syrin
Surgery
There are two ways surgery can be used to remove a ganglion cyst: open surgery where the surgeon makes a medium-sized cut, usually about 5cm (2 inches) long,over the site of the affected joint or tend
After the operation
The surgeon will stitch up the wound and a bandage will be placed over the area. This helps keep the area clean,reducing the risk of infection, as well as keeping it safe from any accidental bumps. Th
Complications
Having a ganglion cyst removed is a minor procedure, so complications are rare and seldom serious. However, a small number of people experience permanent stiffness and pain after surgery.If you have t
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