What is a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a mass or lump that appears on the hand or wrist. They are very common and most often occur on the top of the wrist, on the palm side of the wrist, at the end joint of a finger, and at the base of a finger. People with ganglion cysts report having considerable pain, especially when the condition first appears or with constant or strenuous use of the hand. These types of cysts are not cancerous.

What causes ganglion cysts?
Ganglion cysts grow near joints or tendon sheaths, but their specific cause is not known.

How is it diagnosed?
Your physician will examine the location and appearance of the cyst. An x-ray may be required to rule out problems in nearby joints.

How are ganglion cysts treated?
Sometimes, the cyst is merely watched for any changes. However, some nonsurgical treatments may be called for if the cyst is painful, limits activity, or is simply unacceptable to the patient. Your physician might remove fluid from the cyst using a needle, or provide a splint to keep the hand or wrist stable. Hand surgery is also an option if these nonsurgical treatments do not produce the desired result.

With hand surgery, the source of the cyst is removed. In some cases, a portion of the joint capsule may be removed, too. Tenderness, discomfort and swelling are common after surgery.

Occasionally, therapy is required following surgery to regain better use of the hand. The Rehabilitation department at The Centre, P.C. is staffed by highly skilled, professionally trained therapists who offer a unique variety of treatment options to help patients return to their normal routines as quickly and comfortably as possible.

You can resume full activity once comfort returns and your physician approves. Even with surgery, however, the cysts may recur.

When cosmetic surgery is required, The Centre, P.C. recommends the use of the VitaMedica Surgery Program, a comprehensive pre- and post-surgery nutritional supplement system designed specifically for patients undergoing extensive surgical procedures.

Contact our hand surgeons to schedule a consultation about your hand injury. The Centre, P.C. offers treatment for ganglion cysts to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area, and Chicago.

 

Elkhart Office

RiverPointe Medical Building
500 Arcade Ave., Suite 300
Elkhart, IN 46514
Phone: 574-296-9100
FAX: 574-293-1511

South Bend Office

MEDICAL PAVILION I
720 EAST CEDAR STREET, SUITE 450
SOUTH BEND, IN 46617
PHONE: 574-233-9100
FAX: 574-233-9108

Chesterton Office

1830 SOUTH 11TH STREET
Chesterton, IN 46304
Phone: 219-395-9200

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