Ganglion Cyst Treatment in Malleshwaram, Bangalore
A ganglion cyst is a soft, fluid-filled lump that commonly develops near the joints or tendons of the hand or wrist. While often harmless, it can cause pain, stiffness, or interfere with movement – especially when pressing on nearby nerves. At Sapiens Clinic, Malleshwaram, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of ganglion cysts, helping restore comfort and hand function with precise care.
What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
Ganglion cysts are noncancerous sacs filled with a clear, jelly-like fluid. They often form over joints, especially on the back of the wrist, though they can also appear on the fingers or the palm side. These cysts may fluctuate in size and can grow rapidly or slowly. While some remain painless and barely noticeable, others may cause pressure-related symptoms or discomfort with motion.
Although the exact cause isn’t fully understood, they are believed to arise due to joint or tendon irritation, overuse injuries, or fluid leakage from nearby structures.
Common Symptoms
- A round, noticeable lump on the wrist, hand, or fingers
- Aching or pain that worsens with movement
- Tingling or numbness if the cyst compresses a nerve
- Weak grip strength or limited hand motion
Symptoms may vary depending on the cyst’s size and location.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination. Your doctor may gently press the lump to assess tenderness and mobility. If needed, further tests such as :
- Ultrasound or MRI: To confirm it’s a fluid-filled cyst and rule out other conditions
- Transillumination: A simple test where light is shone through the cyst to identify its contents
These tools help determine the type and guide your treatment plan.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach depends on the size of the cyst and how much it’s affecting your hand function :
- Observation: If the cyst is small and painless, monitoring it over time may be all that’s needed.
- Immobilization: Wearing a wrist brace can help reduce movement and pressure on the cyst, allowing it to shrink naturally.
- Aspiration: In this non-surgical procedure, the fluid is drained using a sterile needle. It offers temporary relief, although recurrence is common.
- Surgical Removal: If the cyst is painful, restricts motion, or recurs after aspiration, surgery may be recommended. The procedure involves removing the cyst and its root attachment to minimize recurrence.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients recover well with minimal downtime. After aspiration or surgery, wrist movement may be limited for a short period. Physical therapy exercises may be advised to restore range of motion and strength. Recurrence is less likely with surgery but still possible in some cases.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid repetitive wrist strain
- Take regular breaks during high-impact hand activities
- Use ergonomic tools when working with your hands
- Seek medical care early for wrist discomfort or swelling
Conclusion
Though benign, ganglion cysts can disrupt your hand’s comfort and performance. Whether you need reassurance, non-surgical care, or surgical removal, early consultation can make recovery quicker and smoother. For a precise diagnosis and expert care, consult Dr. Darshan Kumar A. Jain, Hand and Upper Limb Surgeon at Sapiens Clinic, Malleshwaram.
FAQs
1. Are ganglion cysts dangerous?
No, they are noncancerous. But if they press on nerves or interfere with joint function, treatment may be necessary.
2. Will the cyst go away on its own?
Sometimes. Small cysts may shrink over time, especially with rest and reduced wrist movement.
3. How effective is aspiration?
Aspiration provides quick relief but has a higher chance of recurrence. It’s often the first step before considering surgery.
4. Is ganglion cyst surgery risky?
It’s a safe outpatient procedure with low complication rates. Recovery is usually smooth with proper care.
5. Can the cyst come back after surgery?
There’s still a small risk of recurrence, but it’s significantly lower than with non-surgical options.
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