A wrist ganglion is a small
cyst filled with synovial fluid that forms around the wrist joint. Ganglion
cysts can be found on other joints, but are most often seen at the back
of the wrist. The cyst is usually painless, but excessive use of the hand
or pressure to the ganglion may cause discomfort.
Ganglions may disappear on
their own, but often return at a later date. If the ganglion is not painful
and does not interfere with the use of the hand and wrist, no treatment
is necessary. If the ganglion becomes painful or large, your doctor
may consider using a needle to aspirate, or withdraw fluid from the cyst.
Surgery to remove the ganglion may be necessary if aspiration of the fluid
does not provide permanent relief.
