Ganglion Cysts

A ganglion is a sac-like swelling or cyst formed from the tissue that lines a joint or tendon, usually found on the wrist or ankle. They are usually painless and often barely visible as localized swellings.

How is a ganglion cyst diagnosed?

A physical exam is often all that is needed to diagnose a ganglion cyst however your doctor may get further confirmation by using a syringe to draw out some of the fluid in the cyst (needle aspiration). In some cases your doctor may order an ultrasound to determine whether the bump is fluid-filled (cystic) or if it is solid.

How is a ganglion cyst treated?

Nonsurgical treatment

A ganglion can spontaneously rupture and go away. Other treatment options include removal of the ganglion fluid with a needle and syringe (aspiration), with or without an injection of cortisone medication.

Surgery

Surgical removal of the cyst is needed when the mass is painful, interferes with function, or causes numbness or tingling of the foot or toes. If you compare aspiration/injection and surgical removal, in general, cysts return less often after surgery.

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