Ganglion Cysts of the Hand
Top Washington D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia Orthopedic Surgeons Specializing in Ganglion Cysts of the Hand
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms as a herniation from a joint capsule or tendon sheath. The sac is attached to the joint or tendon sheath by a "stalk" that allows fluid to move into the pouch from the joint or sheath. The stalk functions as a valve and often limits fluid drainage out of the cyst, allowing the cyst to increase - but not decrease - in size. In some cases the stalk functions as a two-way valve, allowing fluid to travel in both directions. This can enable the cyst to increase and decrease in size based on activities.
What are ganglion cysts?
This detailed video describes ganglion cysts of the hand, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment. Not all cysts require treatment. Those that do not cause pain or limited motion can simply be observed. A painful or bothersome cyst can be drained with a needle (called aspiration), and a steroid can then be injected into the capsule or tendon sheath to decrease inflammation and decrease risk of recurrence.