Ganglion Cyst Wrist Treatment
Personalised Surgical Care for
Wrist Ganglion Cysts
A noticeable lump on the wrist can be a source of discomfort and uncertainty. For many, this turns out to be a ganglion cyst – a fluid-filled swelling that commonly develops near joints or tendons in the wrist. While often harmless, ganglion cysts can become painful, restrict movement, or interfere with everyday activities.
At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, we understand how disruptive a wrist ganglion cyst can be. Whether you’re dealing with persistent pain, reduced mobility, or a recurring ganglion cyst, seeking timely treatment from a specialist can make all the difference. Led by Hand and Wrist Surgeon Mr Patrick Goon, we offer tailored care options, including surgical removal, to help restore comfort and function.
What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms near a joint or tendon, most commonly on the back or front of the wrist. These cysts contain a thick, jelly-like fluid and may vary in size, often increasing during periods of activity and shrinking at rest.
While ganglion cysts on the wrist are not cancerous, they can become painful or interfere with movement, particularly if located near a nerve or if they enlarge significantly. Some may resolve without treatment, while others persist or return after initial care.
Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst on the Wrist
Recognising the symptoms early can help determine when treatment may be needed. Common signs include:
- Visible lump: Usually round or oval, most often found on the back (dorsal) or front (volar) of the wrist.
- Pain or aching: May occur during wrist use or repetitive motion.
- Limited movement: Reduced wrist flexibility or stiffness.
- Tingling or numbness: A result of nearby nerve compression.
- Grip weakness: Occasionally associated with larger cysts that affect tendon function.
Diagnosing Ganglion Cysts
Accurate diagnosis ensures the most appropriate treatment pathway. At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, the diagnostic process may involve:
- Clinical examination: Assessing the size, location and impact on wrist movement.
- Ultrasound imaging: To confirm that the lump is fluid-filled and assess its relationship to nearby structures.
- MRI scan: Occasionally used for deeper cysts or if diagnosis is uncertain
- Differential diagnosis: Ruling out other causes of wrist swelling or pain.
Treatment Options for Ganglion Cyst Wrist
Non-Surgical Treatment
In cases where the cyst causes minimal or no symptoms, non-surgical strategies may be considered:
- Observation: Many small, painless cysts do not require immediate treatment and can be safely monitored.
- Splinting: A wrist brace or splint can reduce irritation during daily activity.
- Activity modification: Avoiding repetitive strain may help relieve symptoms.
- Aspiration: In some cases, the fluid can be removed using a needle, although recurrence is common.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is often recommended when a ganglion cyst is painful, persistent, or affects wrist function. At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, Mr Patrick Goon, a Specialist Hand and Wrist Surgeon, performs surgical excision to remove the cyst in full, including its stalk, which is attached to the joint capsule or tendon sheath.
Surgical options include:
Open Excision
This is the most commonly performed technique. A small incision is made over the cyst to allow direct removal of both the cyst and its root. This approach provides clear access and is particularly effective for dorsal (back of the wrist) cysts.
Minimally Invasive (Arthroscopic) Excision
In select cases, keyhole surgery may be used, particularly for volar (palm-side) wrist cysts. This approach allows for smaller incisions and can result in a shorter recovery period, depending on the cyst’s position.
Surgery is typically carried out as a day case procedure, under local or general anaesthetic and offers a high success rate with a significantly lower chance of recurrence compared to aspiration.
Delaying ganglion cyst wrist treatment can increase discomfort or lead to nerve compression in some cases.
Key Benefits of Timely Treatment
Seeking treatment for a wrist ganglion cyst can offer several advantages, particularly when symptoms are interfering with daily tasks or hand function:
- Relief from wrist pain and discomfort
- Improved movement and grip strength
- Reduced risk of recurrence with surgical removal
- Faster return to normal activity
- Better long-term function and comfort
Recovery and Aftercare
Following ganglion cyst removal, recovery is usually straightforward, though it can vary depending on the surgical method used. Our aftercare recommendations may include:
- Wrist support: A light bandage or splint to protect the area in the early days.
- Elevation and ice: To help reduce post-operative swelling.
- Hand therapy: Gentle exercises to restore mobility and function.
- Follow-up appointments: To monitor healing and address any concerns.
Most individuals return to light activities within a few days, with full recovery over several weeks guided by the specialist team.
Why Choose UK Hand and Wrist Surgery
for Ganglion Cyst Wrist Treatment?
At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, care is led by Mr Patrick Goon, a Consultant Orthopaedic Hand and Wrist Surgeon with fellowship training in complex hand and wrist procedures. He brings extensive experience from both NHS and private practice, providing patients with high-level surgical expertise and a focused approach to wrist conditions.
We offer:
- Consultant-led care throughout the treatment process
- Detailed diagnostic assessment using advanced imaging
- Specialist surgical techniques to minimise recurrence and support long-term recovery
- Personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s symptoms, lifestyle and goals
- Timely access to care with continuity under a single specialist
As a clinic dedicated exclusively to hand and wrist conditions, we ensure that every patient benefits from subspecialty knowledge, surgical precision and a treatment pathway designed for optimal outcomes.
Meet Mr Patrick Goon
Mr Goon, a highly trained Specialist Hand Surgeon, leads our clinic with expertise and a commitment to excellence in care. His experience spans a range of simple to complex procedures, from carpal tunnel release to wrist fusion and tendon repair. His focus on minimally invasive techniques supports optimal recovery and reduces post-operative discomfort, ensuring patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Book an Appointment with Mr Goon
If you are suffering from a hand or wrist problem, please use the online form to contact us and arrange an appointment with Mr Goon. Alternatively, you can call us on 07355 571488 or email us at enquiries@handwristsurgery.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a ganglion cyst on the wrist?
A ganglion cyst forms when fluid leaks from a joint or tendon sheath, often due to joint irritation, repetitive wrist movements, or previous injury. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but they’re more common in people who frequently use their wrists.
How long is recovery after ganglion cyst surgery?
Most people return to light activity within a few days, with full recovery taking a few weeks. Recovery time depends on the surgical approach and the individual’s overall wrist function before surgery.
Can a ganglion cyst come back after surgery?
While recurrence is possible, surgical removal significantly reduces the likelihood compared to aspiration or non-surgical options. Removing the cyst and its stalk lowers the risk of it returning.
When should you see a specialist for a ganglion cyst?
You should see a specialist if the cyst is painful, growing, affecting wrist function, or has come back after previous treatment. Early assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
Is a ganglion cyst on the wrist dangerous?
Ganglion cysts are not dangerous or cancerous, but they can press on nearby nerves or limit movement if left untreated, which may affect daily activities.
What Our Patients Say
Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
5th July 2024
I managed to dislocate one knuckle and badly break another knuckle in the same finger into multiple pieces, an injury which every Healthcare Professional that saw the X-ray told me was not only severe damage but also a particularly rare injury. Mr Goon and his team screwed the knuckle back together, which was particularly fiddly given the multiple small pieces.
After the operation I was given a number of exercises which were progressively added to over a series of regular appointments, both with Mr Goon and multiple Hand Therapists, to check and monitor my progress. I followed their instructions as closely as I could, both in frequency of exercising and how far to push the injury (I did want to actually recover fully after all, so why would I have not listened to the experts!), even though this was sometimes inconvenient or sore.
I’m delighted to say that I now have full use and movement of the finger and a scar which is unnoticeable unless you look very closely for it. Mr Goon and his team are all a credit to the NHS, not only due to their expertise, but all kept a very friendly and positive attitude at all times not just about the potential recovery but also with their general demeanor, were always supportive and happy to answer any question I had, even if I was worried they may have been obvious answers, and were always clear about the next steps I needed to take.
It’s also worth mentioning for anyone that may be critical of the NHS which is clearly currently under intense pressure based on the number of patients in the Hospital ever time I went in, I sustained the injury on a Wednesday evening, had the dislocation sorted at a Hospital walk-in clinic within 1.5 hours and had met the surgeon, gone through the options and procedure and was in surgery by Saturday morning. Mr Goon even came to see me himself and tell me how the procedure had gone as soon as I was fully awake. This shows what an amazing service the NHS actually provides, and I didn’t have to pay a penny.
The whole experience has far exceeded my expectations and I can only thank Mr Goon and his entire team for the amazing work that they have done to ensure my full recovery.
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Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
3rd October 2024
I had an accident at work that led to part of my finger being cut off. Mr. Goon has been treating me, and thanks to his skill, I’ve actually got that part of my finger back, including the nail. Honestly didn’t think that’d be possible, especially not so soon. I’m really grateful to have had such a great doctor during such a rough time. It couldn’t have gone better. Joe Efford
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Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
10th October 2024
I saw Dr Goon following an accident with a horse which resulted in numerous breakages in my thumb. Having had numerous visits and having experienced terrible pain I was not sure if Doctor Goon could help. How wrong I was, he was extremely good in every aspect of his work getting my pain under control pretty quickly. He reassured me, listening to my concerns and always made me feel completely at ease. He has a very positive attitude at all times with every visit exceeding my expectations. I will require further surgery but I am not concerned as I cannot fault the care from Mr Goon and his great team to date. I know I will be in safe hands. He is indeed “The Miracle Man”.
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