Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats ganglion cysts for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. Our hand and wrist specialists help patients understand these common hand and wrist masses while offering treatment options based on symptoms, activity level, and individual goals.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are the most common type of lump or bump found in the hand or wrist.
These benign, fluid-filled cysts contain synovial fluid that originates from a nearby joint or tendon sheath. Ganglion cysts may change in size or shape over time and, in some cases, disappear without treatment.
The most common symptom is a visible lump near the wrist or joints of the fingers. Some cysts may also cause pain, particularly if they place pressure on nearby nerves or limit joint motion. Patients often notice that the cyst becomes more prominent during certain hand or wrist activities.
Treatment depends on your symptoms. If the cyst is not painful and does not interfere with hand or wrist function, observation may be recommended. If the cyst causes pain, limits motion, or affects daily activities, aspiration or surgical excision may be considered.
Diagnosis of Ganglion Cysts
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the hand or wrist.
Your provider will evaluate the location, size, and characteristics of the cyst while determining whether additional imaging is appropriate.
X-rays
X-rays may be obtained to evaluate the bones and joints beneath the cyst and identify any structural changes.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging may be used to further evaluate the cyst and may also assist with aspiration when appropriate.
Medical Management of Ganglion Cysts
Many ganglion cysts do not require treatment. Management depends on the size of the cyst, your symptoms, and how much it affects daily activities.
Observation
Once the diagnosis of a ganglion cyst is confirmed, no additional treatment may be necessary. Many ganglion cysts can simply be observed because they may resolve on their own.
Aspiration
Aspiration uses a needle to drain the synovial fluid from the cyst. While aspiration may resolve the cyst, recurrence is common, occurring in approximately 50% of cases.
When Surgery is Considered
Surgical excision may be recommended if a ganglion cyst causes pain, limits motion, or interferes with daily activities.
The goal of surgery is to remove the cyst from the hand or wrist. Your provider will discuss whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and examination findings.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Hand & Wrist Care
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. Our hand and wrist specialists provide comprehensive care for common and complex conditions affecting the fingers, hand, wrist, and upper extremity, supported by on-site imaging, therapy, and orthopedic surgical care.
