Ganglion cyst aspiration
What is a ganglion cyst?
Ganglion cysts are common swellings in the hand and wrist. They feel like a smooth lump under the skin and are usually diagnosed on clinical examination. They contain thick clear fluid and occur in four common locations:
- The middle of the back of the wrist
- The front of the wrist at the base of the thumb
- The base of a finger on the palmar side
- The back of an end joint of a finger
What are they caused by?
Ganglion cysts typically arise spontaneously and are thought to occur when the fluid from a joint or tendon leaks out and collects in a sac.
Treatment options
There are three main treatment options for a ganglion cyst:
- Explanation, reassurance and wait to see if it disappears on its own
- Draining the fluid out of the cyst with a needle and syringe (aspiration)
- Cutting the cyst out using surgery treatment is only recommended if the cyst causes pain or affects the range of movement in a joint.
I’m having my ganglion cyst aspirated – what can I expect?
- Aspiration is often carried out in the outpatient department under ultrasound guidance (to help guide the needle).
- Local anaesthetic is injected first to help numb the area and this can sting a bit. In children we apply numbing cream 30 minutes before.
- Your doctor will then insert a needle into the cyst and attempt to remove all the fluid
- You might also be given an injection of steroid medication to help prevent the cyst returning and reduce inflammation.
- You will be placed in a dressing to cover the injection site which you can remove six hours after the procedure.
- You will be able to leave the hospital straight away afterwards.
- Avoid sport and heavy lifting for 1 week following the procedure.
Is my ganglion cyst likely to come back?
Unfortunately, around half of all ganglion cysts return at some point following an aspiration. If it does return, surgery may be necessary.
Contact information
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
Hand Management Unit
1st Floor, Lift Bank D
T: 020 3315 5376