Ganglion cysts of the wrist and hand in Louisiana are the most common masses or lumps in the hand. They are not cancerous and, in most cases, are harmless. They grow in various locations, but most frequently appear on the back of the wrist.
These fluid-filled cysts can quickly appear, disappear, and change size. Many ganglion cysts do not require treatment. However, if the cyst is painful, interferes with function, or has an unacceptable appearance, there are several treatment options available.
Diagnosing Ganglion Cysts of the Wrist and Hand in Louisiana
Medical Examination: During the initial appointment, your doctor will discuss your medical history and symptoms. He or she may ask you how long you have had the ganglion, whether it has changed in size, and whether it is painful.
X-rays: These tests create clear pictures of dense structures, like bone. Although x-rays will not show a ganglion cyst, they can be used to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or a bone tumor.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans or ultrasounds: These tests can show soft tissues like a ganglion. Sometimes, an MRI or ultrasound is needed to find an occult ganglion that is not visible or to distinguish the cyst from other tumors.
Treatment Options for Ganglion Cysts of the Wrist and Hand in Louisiana
Nonsurgical Treatment:
Observation: Because the ganglion is not cancerous and may disappear in time if you do not have symptoms, your doctor may recommend just waiting and watching to make sure that no unusual changes occur.
Immobilization: Activity often causes the ganglion to increase in size and also increases pressure on nerves, causing pain. A wrist brace or splint may relieve symptoms and cause the ganglion to decrease in size.
Aspiration: If the ganglion causes a great deal of pain or severely limits activities, the fluid may be drained from it – this procedure is called an aspiration. The area around the ganglion cyst is numbed and the cyst is punctured with a needle so that the fluid can be withdrawn.
Surgical Treatment: Your doctor may recommend surgery if your symptoms are not relieved by nonsurgical methods, or if the ganglion returns following aspiration. The procedure to remove a ganglion cyst is called an excision. It is typically an outpatient procedure and patients are able to go home after a period of observation in the recovery area.
If you are noticing any unusual bumps or cysts, and feel you may be suffering from ganglion cysts of the wrist and hand in Louisiana, don’t take any chances or waste any time. Call our office today to schedule a consultation so we can perform a complete examination and discuss your options.