Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion Cyst

A Ganglion Cyst is also commonly referred to as a Bible Cyst. It’s a sac of fluid that forms over a tendon or a joint. Ganglion Cyst most commonly develop in wrist or hand joint, but they can also develop near the ankle, knee and foot. The causes of a Ganglion Cyst in unknown, and they occur in patients of all ages.

Ganglion Cyst is a benign growth that can vary in size and could be very firm or soft. It can appear suddenly and in some instances disappear. While most Ganglion Cyst will for a visible lump, they can develop hidden from view. They are not necessarily painful and in most cases they are harmless. If a Ganglion Cyst is painful or causes numbness, it is most likely near a nerve.

Diagnosing A Ganglion Cyst

An orthopedic doctor examining a patient who potentially has Ganglion Cyst will evaluate your symptoms and medical history. They will typically want to know if it causes pain, if it has changed in size and how long you have had the cyst. An X-Ray and other imaging test may done.

Ganglion Cyst Removal

Most Ganglion Cyst do not require treatment. A cyst might be treated because of it’s undesirable appearance or it’s causing pain. The most common form of treatment aspiration, draining the fluid from the cyst with a needle. A drained cyst can grow back, because the root to the tendon or joint is not removed during this process. The use of a brace to immobilize the affected area might also be recommended. Restricting movement in the affected area may help to reduce pressure on the cyst.

Outpatient surgery may be used to remove the contents of ganglion cyst as well as the root of the cyst. Surgery will reduce the chance that a ganglion cyst can develop again in the same area. Pain and swelling as a result of the procedure can last a few days. The use of a splint for a short time after surgery may be recommended.

Is It Time To See An Orthopedic Doctor?

The Orthopedic Doctors and Podiatrist at The Center For Musculoskeletal Disorders can help patients who have Ganglion Cyst or other musculoskeletal disorders. Give us a call or submit a request to schedule an evaluation at one of our conveniently orthopedic clinics.