Ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts are the commonest cause of a swelling in the hand and they are found most often on the dorsal ( Figure 38.58 ) and volar ( Figure 38.59 ) surfaces of the wrist, over the dorsum of the DIP joint (digital mucous cyst) or within the flexor tendon sheath at the base of the finger (seed ganglion). Dorsal and volar wrist ganglions can cause discomfort. The swellings are smooth, fluctuant and transilluminate brightly . Mucous cysts may discharge and can cause nail changes ( Figure 38.60 ). Seed ganglions can be painful when gripping. Aspiration or surgical excision can be considered. Patients should be informed regarding possible recurrence. Ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts are the commonest cause of a swelling in the hand and they are found most often on the dorsal ( Figure 38.58 ) and volar ( Figure 38.59 ) surfaces of the wrist, over the dorsum of the DIP joint (digital mucous cyst) or within the flexor tendon sheath at the base of the finger (seed ganglion). Dorsal and volar wrist ganglions can cause discomfort. The swellings are smooth, fluctuant and transilluminate brightly . Mucous cysts may discharge and can cause nail changes ( Figure 38.60 ). Seed ganglions can be painful when gripping. Aspiration or surgical excision can be considered. Patients should be informed regarding possible recurrence. Ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts are the commonest cause of a swelling in the hand and they are found most often on the dorsal ( Figure 38.58 ) and volar ( Figure 38.59 ) surfaces of the wrist, over the dorsum of the DIP joint (digital mucous cyst) or within the flexor tendon sheath at the base of the finger (seed ganglion). Dorsal and volar wrist ganglions can cause discomfort. The swellings are smooth, fluctuant and transilluminate brightly . Mucous cysts may discharge and can cause nail changes ( Figure 38.60 ). Seed ganglions can be painful when gripping. Aspiration or surgical excision can be considered. Patients should be informed regarding possible recurrence.