What is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops near a joint or tendon in the hand or wrist. They are typically smooth, soft, and round or oval in shape. While ganglion cysts are benign, they can cause pain or discomfort, particularly when near a nerve, and many patients choose to have them removed.

What is a mucous cyst?

Also known as a mucoid cyst or digital myxoid cyst, this is a small fluid-filled bump that develops on the finger or thumb, usually at the last joint (closest to the nail). It is often associated with osteoarthritis (wear and tear type arthritis).

  • Treatment options
  • Observation — many ganglion cysts disappear on their own.
  • Aspiration — draining the cyst with a needle (preferred method for some cysts; up to 30–40% recurrence rate).
  • Surgical removal — excision of the cyst under local anaesthetic; the most definitive treatment.

Frequently asked questions

What causes a ganglion or myxoid cyst?

The exact cause of ganglion cysts is not fully understood. They are thought to develop when the tissue that surrounds a joint or tendon (the synovium) forms a sac that fills with fluid. They may be related to joint or tendon irritation, arthritis, and can appear following a minor injury.

Are ganglion and myxoid cysts dangerous?

No. These cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and do not spread. However, they can cause pain, discomfort, or nerve compression, and may interfere with joint movement. If a cyst is causing symptoms, removal may be recommended.

Do ganglion and myxoid cysts go away on their own?

Yes — many of these cysts resolve spontaneously without treatment, particularly smaller cysts. Observation is a reasonable option if the cyst is not causing pain or functional problems. However, cysts that persist or cause symptoms may benefit from aspiration or surgical removal.

How is a ganglion or myxoid cyst removed?

Hand cysts can be removed by aspiration (draining the fluid using a needle under local anaesthetic) or by surgical excision (removing the cyst and its root under local anaesthetic). Surgical excision offers the lowest recurrence rate. Both procedures are performed as day case procedures.

Will hand cysts come back after surgery?

Surgical excision has a recurrence rate of approximately 5–15%, making it the most definitive treatment. Aspiration has a higher recurrence rate of around 30–40%. Your surgeon will discuss the options and associated recurrence risks with you.

What is the recovery time after hand cyst surgery?

Recovery from hand cyst surgery is typically straightforward. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and to normal activities within 2–4 weeks. A period of immobilisation with a splint may be recommended initially.

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