Dorsal Wrist Ganglion
Problem
- Swelling on the back of the wrist
Cause
- A fluid filled cyst, arising from the ligaments/capsule of the wrist. Most commonly the scapho/lunate ligament.
Diagnosis
- Pain/discomfort is felt on the back of the wrist, usually exacerbated by wrist extension
- The swelling is usually clearly seen, more prominent with wrist flexion. The swelling can come and go.
- X-rays are usually normal.
- MRI/Ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis as a fluid filled cyst.
Treatment
- Aspiration can deflate the cyst, usually reoccurs
- Surgery – General Anaesthetic
- Transverse or longitudinal incision
- Excision of cyst and ‘stalk’ from where the cyst arises
- Specimen sent to laboratory for histological analysis
Potential Complication
- Infection, Haematoma, numbness to back of hand
- Stiffness
- Small chance of reoccurrence – less than 5%.
Post Op
- Day surgery
- Supportive bandage for ten days
- Wound check and discuss histology at 10 days
- Back to most activities by two weeks
