Ganglion cyst
A ganglion cyst is a benign tumor containing joint fluid that commonly originates from tendons or joints in the hand or wrist.
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What causes of a ganglion cyst?
Exact causes are unknown, but often these are associated with wear of the joint or repetitive trauma to tendons.
Symptoms
Most of the time, these lumps are painless and do not cause any symptoms other than deformity. Sometimes, however, these masses cause pressure on surrounding structures like nerves and can cause pain.
Diagnosis?
Usually, the diagnosis is easy for your hand surgeon. An X ray is often performed, and rarely, ultrasound or MRI examination will be required.
Functional Treatment
Ganglion cysts can disappear on their own. Aspiration can also provide relief but it is followed by a high recurrence rate.
Surgery
A simple procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and the cyst is removed along with its stalk attaching it to a tendon sheath or to a joint capsule. The rate of recurrence following excision is only about 5%.
Relieve your pain quickly
Relieve your pain quickly
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Practical medical guides
Dr. Brutus offers a series of publications on a variety of health topics. Written in a clear and simple language, in collaboration with experts of various fields, these books are offered free of charge in downloadable version.
By Jean Paul Brutus MD and Nathalie Brisebois
Practical medical guides
Dr. Brutus offers a series of publications on a variety of health topics. Written in a clear and simple language, in collaboration with experts of various fields, these books are offered free of charge in downloadable version.
By Jean Paul Brutus MD and Nathalie Brisebois