Patients › Hand
Ganglion ng Flexor Tendon Sheath
A benign, fluid-filled cyst arising from the flexor tendon sheath – often painless, but can cause clicking or limited finger movement.
Ano ang nararamdaman mo¶
Maaaring mapansin mo ang isang malambot na buntong sa iyong pulso o kamay. Karaniwang parang maliit na lobo ng tubig sa ilalim ng balat ang pakiramdam nito. Maaaring biglang lumitaw ang buntong o dahan-dahang lumaki ito sa loob ng panahon. Maraming tao ang nagsasabing ang lugar ay tila masikip o may sakit na nakakaabala. Karaniwang mild ang sakit ngunit maaari itong maging matulis kapag gumagalaw ka sa iyong pulso sa mga partikular na paraan. Maaaring makaramdam ka ng discomfort kapag yumuyuko ka pabalik ng iyong pulso o kapag mahigpit na humahawak ka ng mga bagay.
Maaaring maging mahirap ang mga araw-araw na gawain dahil sa buntong o sa sakit. Maaaring maging awkward ang pag-abot sa likod mo upang isara ang bra. Ang pagtutukoy ng isang kamiseta ay maaaring humila sa balat sa ibabaw ng cyst. Ang pag-angat ng mabibigat na bag o pagbubukas ng mga bote ay maaaring magpalala sa lugar. May mga tao na nakakaramdam ng pakiramdam ng tingling kung ang buntong ay pumipindot sa mga malapit na nerbiyos. Maaari nitong gawing mahina o numb ang iyong kamay. Karaniwang lumalala ang mga sintomas pagkatapos ng mga panahon ng paulit-ulit na paggalaw ng pulso o mabigat na aktibidad.
Maaaring mag-flare up ang sakit sa gabi, na nagpapatigil sa komportableng pagtulog. Maaaring mahirap na pahinga ang iyong pulso sa isang unan. Sa paggising, maaaring mas malinaw ang stiffness. Gayunpaman, hindi laging nakakaramdam ng sakit ang buntong mismo. Sa ilang kaso, ito ay isang kitang-kitang bulge lamang na nakakaabala sa iyong cosmetic na aspeto. Humigit-kumulang 40% ng mga ganglion sa pulso ay bumababa ang laki sa loob ng unang 6 taon nang walang anumang paggamot. Ibig sabihin, maaaring magbawi ang iyong mga sintomas nang sarili sa paglipas ng panahon.
Kung lumaki ang buntong, maaari nitong limitahan ang iyong range of motion. Maaaring mapansin mo na hindi na kasing mabilis ng iyong pulso ang pag-yuko kumpara dati. Maaaring makagambala ang discomfort sa trabaho o mga hobby na nangangailangan ng fine motor skills. Maaari mong iwasan ang paggamit ng iyong kamay dahil sa takot na magdulot ng karagdagang sakit. Mahalagang makinig sa iyong katawan at magpahinga kapag ang lugar ay nakakaramdam ng sakit. Tutulungan ka ng iyong surgeon na maunawaan kung ang mga sintomas ay dulot ng ganglion o ng ibang isyu.
Ano ang nangyayari talaga¶
Ang ganglion cyst ay isang sac na puno ng likido na bumubuo sa malapit sa iyong mga kasukasuan o tendon. Isipin mo ito na parang maliit na water balloon na umuusbong mula sa lining ng kasukasuan. Ang lining na ito, tinatawag na synovium, ay gumagawa ng lubricating fluid upang matulungan ang iyong mga kasukasuan na gumalaw nang maayos. Minsan, lumalabas o lumilipat ang likidong ito sa pamamagitan ng mahinang bahagi ng joint capsule. Ang capsule ay ang matibay na sleeve na nakabalot sa iyong kasukasuan.
Nakokolekta ang likido sa isang sac, na lumilikha ng bula na makikita o maramdaman mo. Ang bula na ito ay maaaring pindutin ang mga kalapit na estruktura. Halimbawa, maaari nitong pindutin ang isang nerve, na nagdudulot ng sakit o kahinaan. Maaari rin itong makagambala sa iyong mga tendon, na mga matibay na tali na nag-uugnay ng kalamnan sa buto. Dahil sa presyur na ito, maaaring maramdaman mo ang discomfort o mapansin ang limitadong galaw.
Sa ilang kaso, direktang nakakonekta ang cyst sa espasyo ng kasukasuan. Ibig sabihin, maaaring dalhin ng likido ang pagdaloy pabalik-balik sa pagitan ng kasukasuan at cyst. Ipinapaliwanag ng koneksyong ito kung bakit maaaring magbago ang laki ng bula o mawala itong pansamantala. Minsan, tinatanggal ng katawan ang likidong ito nang sarili. Humigit-kumulang 40% ng mga ganglion lesion sa pulso ay bumababa ang laki sa loob ng unang 6 taon pagkatapos ng pagsusuri ng isang hand surgeon.
Gayunpaman, kung nananatili ang cyst, maaari itong magdulot ng patuloy na isyu. Maaari itong magdulot ng trigger finger, kung saan nakakabit ang tendon habang gumagalaw. O maaari itong pindutin ang mga nerve, na nagdudulot ng numbness o tingling. Sasuriin ng iyong surgeon ang lugar upang kumpirmahin ang diagnosis. Maaari silang gumamit ng imaging upang makita ang lokasyon at laki ng cyst.
Ang paggamot ay nakadepende sa iyong mga sintomas. May mga taong pumipili na maghintay at tingnan kung magpapabuti ito. May iba naman na mas gusto ang aktibong paggamot. Ang percutaneous puncture ay isang praktikal na opsyon para sa pamamahala ng flexor tendon sheath ganglions dahil sa mababang gastusin, kawalan ng downtime, at mababang rate ng recurrence. Kasama nito ang pag-drain ng likido gamit ang karayom. Kung bumalik ang cyst, tinatanggal ng surgical excision ang sac nang buo. Ang open surgical excision ay nag-aalok ng malaking pagbaba sa chance ng recurrence kumpara sa aspiration sa paggamot ng wrist ganglions.
Layunin naming alisin ang iyong mga sintomas at ibalik ang normal na function. Tatalakayin ng iyong surgeon ang pinakamainam na paraan para sa iyong partikular na kaso. Ang layunin ay bawasan ang sakit at mapabuti ang kakayahan mong gamitin ang iyong kamay at pulso.
Mga maitutulong namin dito¶
Ang inyong pamamaraan sa pagharap sa ganglion ng flexor tendon sheath ay madalas na nakadepende sa kung gaano ito nakakapagod at kung gaano katagal itong umiiral. Si Dr. Kieran Hirpara, isang upper-limb surgeon sa Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, ang nagbibigay-direksyon sa desisyong ito sa aming klinika batay sa iyong mga partikular na sintomas at istilo ng buhay. Sinisimulan namin sa pag-unawa sa kung ano ang kaya mong gawin nang walang sakit. Maraming ganglion ang nagbabawas ng sarili nitong laki. Humigit-kumulang 40% ng mga lesion ng wrist ganglion ay bumababa ang sukat sa loob ng unang 6 taon pagkatapos ng pagsusuri ng isang hand surgeon. Sa mga bata, kung ang cyst ay magre-resolve, karaniwang nangyayari ito sa loob ng 18 buwan.
Maaari mong subukan ang simpleng self-care muna. Kasama rito ang pagbabago ng mga gawain upang maiwasan ang paulit-ulit na stress sa tendon. Ang iyong physiotherapist o hand therapist ay matututuro sa iyo ng mga banayad na ehersisyo upang panatilihin ang malinis na galaw ng kasukasuan. Ang paggamit ng splint ay maaaring tumulong sa pahinga ng lugar at bawasan ang iritasyon. Madalas naming inirerekomenda na bigyan ng patas na pagsubok ang non-operative care bago isaalang-alang ang mas invasive na hakbang. Kung ang ganglion ay hindi nagdudulot ng sakit o hindi naglalimita sa iyong galaw, ang watchful waiting ay isang ligtas at wastong opsyon.
Kung mananatili ang mga sintomas, lumilipat kami sa medical management. Karaniwang ito ay kinabibilangan ng mga gamot para sa sakit at anti-inflammatory upang pamahalaan ang discomfort. Maaari rin naming alok ang isang injection. Ang mga injection ng cortisone ay maaaring bawasan ang pamamaga at sakit, bagaman pansamantala ang epekto. Ang mga injection ng hyaluronic acid o platelet-rich plasma (PRP) ay minsan ginagamit upang suportahan ang kalusugan ng tissue, ngunit nag-iiba ang kanilang long-term na benepisyo. Ang aspiration, kung saan inidudren namin ang likido gamit ang karayom, ay isang praktikal na opsyon para sa mga ganglion ng flexor tendon sheath. Ito ay may mababang gastusin, walang downtime, at mababang rate ng pagbabalik. Walang mga recurrence ang napansin pagkatapos ng pangalawang puncture sa ilang mga pag-aaral. Gayunpaman, karamihan sa mga ganglion ay bumabalik pagkatapos ng isang aspiration. Inisip namin ang aspiration bilang isang first-line na intervention para sa mga symptomatic na kaso.
Ang operasyon ay isinasaalang-alang kapag ang conservative care ay hindi nagbigay ng sapat na pagpapabuti o kung ang ganglion ay nagdudulot ng malaking compression sa nerbiyos. Ang surgical excision ay nananatiling isang epektibong opsyon para sa mga symptomatic na kasing ito. Ang open surgical excision ay nag-aalok ng malaking pagbaba sa tsansang mag-recurrence kumpara sa aspiration. Para sa mga wrist ganglion, ang surgical intervention ay may humigit-kumulang 10% na rate ng recurrence. Pinag-uusapan namin ang mga panganib, tulad ng pagkabagabag o mga adverse events, at tinatimbang ito laban sa benepisyo ng pag-alis ng cyst. Sa ilang kaso, ang arthroscopy ay nagbibigay-daan sa amin na gamutin ang ganglion at anumang ibang underlying na isyu ng kasukasuan sa parehong oras. Ginagawa namin ang desisyong ito nang sama-sama, tinitiyak na nauunawaan mo ang inaasahang resulta at ang proseso ng paggaling.
Ano ang inaasahan¶
Ang iyong ganglion ay isang bula na puno ng likido na madalas ay nag-uugali nang hindi maipapredict. Humigit-kumulang 40% ng mga ganglion sa pulso ay bumababa ang laki sa loob ng unang 6 taon pagkatapos mong makita ang isang hand surgeon. Maraming tao ang nakakaramdam na ang bula ay lumalabas at nawawala o nananatiling pareho ang laki sa loob ng mga taon. Kung iiwanan mo ito, maaari itong mag-iba-iba nang sarili, ngunit maaari ring manatili o lumaki.
Kung pipiliin mong hindi itong gamutin, maaari kang mabuhay kasama ang bula nang walang katapusan. May mga tao na walang nararamdamang sakit sa anumang paraan. May iba naman na nakakaramdam ng stiffness o mild discomfort. Kung pindutin ng bula ang mga kalapit na istruktura, maaaring mapansin mo ang weakness o pagbabago sa sensation. Sa maraming kaso, ang katawan ay natural na reabsorbs ang likido, ngunit hindi ito garantisado.
Kung desisyon mong alisin ito, talakayin ng iyong surgeon ang pinakamainam na paraan para sa iyong partikular na kaso. Ang aspiration, kung saan inididrain ang likido gamit ang karayom, ay isang karaniwang unang hakbang. Gayunpaman, karamihan sa mga ganglion ay bumabalik pagkatapos ng aspiration. Ang surgical removal ay nag-aalok ng malaking pagbaba sa pagkakataon ng recurrence kumpara sa aspiration. Para sa mga ganglion sa pulso, ang surgical intervention ay may humigit-kumulang 10% na recurrence rate. Ibig sabihin, sa humigit-kumulang 9 sa 10 kaso, hindi bumabalik ang bula.
Ang recovery mula sa surgery ay kinabibilangan ng pamamahala ng swelling at sakit. Karamihan sa mga pasyente ay nakakaranas ng malaking pagtaas sa function at pagbaba ng sakit sa loob ng 6 linggo pagkatapos ng arthroscopic ganglion cyst resection. Ang open excision ay nag-iwan ng scar at may ilang risk para sa adverse events. Ang mga arthroscopic techniques ay nag-aalok ng sabay-sabay na paggamot ng iba pang isyu at madalas ay nagreresulta sa katumbas na recurrence rates kumpara sa open surgery.
Tutulungan ka ng iyong surgeon na bigyang-pansin ang mga risks at benefits. Isasama nila ang iyong edad, activity level, at kung gaano karami ang bula na nagpapagal sa iyo. Wala ng iisang pinakamainam na treatment para sa lahat. May mga tao na mas gusto maghintay at tingnan. May iba naman na mas gusto ang definitive removal upang maiwasan ang future uncertainty. Gabayin ka ng iyong surgeon patungo sa opsyon na angkop sa iyong buhay at mga layunin.
Kailan kumonsulta sa doktor¶
Kumonsulta sa iyong doktor kung mapansin mo ang pamamaga sa iyong pulso o kamay na nagdudulot ng patuloy na sakit, kahinaan, o kawalan ng katatagan. Magpakonsulta sa isang espesyalista kung ang pamamaga ay nagpapa-lock ng iyong kasukasuan, nagdudulot ng pagkahina, o nakakaapekto sa iyong pagtulog o trabaho. Ang biglaang paglala ng mga sintomas ay nangangailangan din ng pagsusuri. Bagama’t maraming ganglion ang nagbabawas ng sukat sa loob ng anim na taon, ang ilang kaso ay nangangailangan ng interbensyon. Ang percutaneous puncture ay nag-aalok ng mababang rate ng pagbalik para sa mga ganglion sa flexor tendon sheath, na walang naitalang pagbalik pagkatapos ng pangalawang puncture sa isang pag-aaral. Gayunpaman, ang karamihan sa mga ganglion ay bumabalik pagkatapos ng simpleng aspiration. Ang iyong surgeon ay makakatulong sa iyo upang magdesisyon kung kailangan pa ng karagdagang paggamot upang maibalik ang function at kaginhawaan.
Evidence & references
This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.
Overview¶
- Surgical excision is a simple, safe, and effective method for treating a painful ganglion of the digital flexor tendon sheath [1].
- Percutaneous puncture is a practical option for managing flexor tendon sheath ganglions due to its low cost, lack of downtime, and low recurrence rate [2].
- No recurrences were observed after a second percutaneous puncture in the assessed cohort [2].
- Pediatric ganglions are more commonly found on the volar surface of the hand and wrist compared to adults [3].
- Pediatric ganglions more commonly have a tendon sheath origin compared to adult ganglions [3].
- There is no consensus within the literature regarding the best management of pediatric wrist ganglia [5].
- No single treatment modality confers a particular advantage or disadvantage over another for pediatric wrist ganglia [5].
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy is a minimally invasive approach that offers better cosmesis [4].
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy results in less soft tissue trauma [4].
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy allows for the management of concomitant FCR tendon pathology [4].
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy carries risks of recurrence and nerve or vessel injury [4].
- Arthroscopy allows for the simultaneous treatment of ganglions and other pathologies [8].
- Outcomes, recurrence, and complications rates after 4 years of follow-up support the use of arthroscopy as a treatment for dorsal wrist ganglion [9].
- The quality of care would not be compromised by abandoning the practice of routine submission of surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of a wrist ganglion cyst [10].
- Routinely performing wrist radiography is not cost-effective in the evaluation and treatment decision-making process for patients with a wrist ganglion [12].
- Routine wrist radiography is not useful in the evaluation of patients with a ganglion cyst of the wrist due to a low prevalence of therapeutically significant findings [12].
- At 12 months follow-up, the rates of recurrence with arthroscopic dorsal ganglion excision are comparable with those of open excision [13].
- At 12 months follow-up, the rates of recurrence with arthroscopic dorsal ganglion excision are not superior to those of open excision [13].
- About 40% of wrist ganglion lesions decrease over the first 6 years after evaluation by a hand surgeon [14].
- Most ganglions recur after aspiration [14].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions has about a 10% recurrence rate [14].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions leaves scars [14].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions has some risk for adverse events [14].
- Operation-related complications after arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy are associated with the anatomical location of the ganglion [18].
- Operation-related complications after arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy are associated with the ganglion being distal to the bifurcation of the radial artery [18].
- Operation-related complications after arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy are associated with the ganglion concurrently penetrating up to the superficial fascia layer [18].
Anatomy & Pathophysiology¶
- Patients with wrist hyperlaxity have a predisposition to developing ganglions [53].
- The incidence of dorsal wrist ganglia is higher in the military population compared with the civilian population [28].
- Surgical recurrence rates for ganglion cysts range from 4% to 40% [27].
- Complications of ganglion cyst surgery include infection, nerve injury, and wrist stiffness [27].
- Dominant side, female sex, and age of 24 years or less are influential risk factors for recurrence after arthroscopic excision of dorsal wrist ganglia [55].
- Worse hand function is associated with recurrence following prior surgery [31].
- Worse hand function is associated with worse baseline hand function [31].
- Worse hand function is associated with lower treatment credibility [31].
- Intraneural ganglions require identification and excision of the articular branch of the involved nerve [30].
- Arthroscopic treatment of intraosseous ganglion cysts of the lunate bone results in cyst resorption with fewer complications such as joint stiffness and vascular disturbances [45].
Classification¶
- Pediatric ganglions more commonly have a tendon sheath origin compared to adults [3].
- Ganglions in pediatric populations most commonly affect the dorsal wrist [20].
- Ganglions in pediatric populations demonstrate a female predilection [20].
- Women are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with a volar wrist ganglion, regardless of age or military status [7].
- The incidence of dorsal wrist ganglia is higher in the military compared with the civilian population [28].
- Tendon-associated ganglion cysts are not usual, although flexor hallucis longus tendinopathy is common in athletes [6].
- Type A ganglion cysts of the radiocapitellar joint may involve compression of the superficial radial nerve [50].
Clinical Presentation¶
- Pediatric ganglions more commonly have a tendon sheath origin compared to those in adults [3].
- In children aged <10 years, ganglions mainly occur on the volar wrist [17].
- Pediatric ganglions of the hand have a greater rate of resolution than ganglions of the wrist [15].
- In a child with a wrist ganglion, if the cyst ultimately resolved, it usually did so within 18 months [11].
- In children aged <10 years, 69% to 79% of volar wrist ganglions display spontaneous regression within a span of 12-18 months [17].
- MRI is an excellent diagnostic modality to evaluate rapidly growing upper extremity masses and distinguish ganglions from malignant processes [16].
- MRI scans provide relatively good reliability in establishing the diagnosis of an occult dorsal wrist ganglion, with a sensitivity of 83% when using intra-operative findings as the standard [21].
- Advanced imaging has value in patients presenting with an atraumatic, painful, and progressive elbow contracture [24].
- Intraneural ganglions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a mass in the vicinity of a nerve [22].
- Uncommon aetiologies should be considered in patients with atypical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome [32].
Investigations¶
- Routine submission of surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of a clinically diagnosed wrist ganglion cyst does not compromise quality of care [10].
- Routinely performing wrist radiography is not cost-effective in the evaluation and treatment decision-making process for patients with a wrist ganglion due to a low prevalence of therapeutically significant findings [12].
- Radiologists are less likely to identify occult dorsal ganglion cysts on MRI if the cyst is smaller or if the requisition form does not mention a cyst [41].
- Preoperative MRI is essential for the diagnosis of intra-articular ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments [42].
- Ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments can easily be detected by MRI [43].
- Sonography-guided wrist arthroscopy provides visualization of the ganglions and ganglion stalk, as well as of the arthroscopic shaver and adjacent structures such as nerves, vessels, and tendons to perform surgery safely [36].
- Sonography-assisted arthroscopic resection is a safer and more reliable method for treating volar wrist ganglia [23].
Treatment¶
Non-Operative Management¶
- Nonsurgical treatment is largely ineffective in treating ganglion cysts [37].
- Nonsurgical treatment may be considered for symptomatic relief in patients who do not want surgery [37].
- Ganglion aspiration should be considered as a first-line intervention [40].
- Percutaneous puncture is a practical option for managing flexor tendon sheath ganglions given its low cost, lack of downtime, and low recurrence rate [2].
- No recurrences were observed after a second puncture in the cohort studied for percutaneous puncture of flexor sheath ganglions [2].
Operative Management: General Outcomes¶
- Surgical intervention has about a 10% recurrence rate [14].
- Surgical intervention leaves scars and has some risk for adverse events [14].
- Surgical recurrence rates range from 4% to 40% [27].
- Complications of surgical treatment include infection, nerve injury, and wrist stiffness [27].
- Open surgical excision offers a significantly lower chance of recurrence compared with aspiration in the treatment of wrist ganglions [39].
- Surgical excision remains an effective option for symptomatic cases where aspiration is not suitable or has failed [40].
Operative Management: Arthroscopic Techniques¶
- Arthroscopic resection is an effective treatment strategy for intra-articular synovial ganglions refractory to conservative measures, providing complete resolution of symptoms and functional recovery with minimal soft tissue damage [34].
- Arthroscopic ganglionectomy through an intrafocal cystic portal is a safe and efficacious option for the treatment of painful wrist ganglia [35].
- Arthroscopic debridement of ganglion cysts offers excellent outcomes without recurrence [38].
- Ganglion cysts have a high association with certain interosseous laxities [19].
- Recurrent ganglion cysts originating from the midcarpal joint are not contraindications for arthroscopic resection [19].
- The outcomes, recurrence, and complications rates after 4 years of follow-up support the use of arthroscopy as a treatment for dorsal wrist ganglion [9].
- At 12 months follow-up, the rates of recurrence with arthroscopic dorsal ganglion excision are comparable with and not superior to those of open excision [13].
Operative Management: Endoscopic Techniques¶
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy offers less soft tissue trauma [4].
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy allows for the ability to manage concomitant FCR tendon pathology [4].
Pathological Examination¶
- In patients with the clinical diagnosis of wrist ganglion cyst, the quality of care would not be compromised by abandoning the practice of routine submission of surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of the ganglion cyst [10].
- In patients with the clinical diagnosis of wrist ganglion cyst, the quality of care would not be compromised by abandoning the practice of routinely submitting surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of the ganglion cyst [25].
Complications¶
- Surgical excision of digital flexor tendon sheath ganglions is considered a safe method [1].
- Percutaneous puncture of flexor tendon sheath ganglions is associated with a low recurrence rate [2].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions has approximately a 10% recurrence rate [14].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions carries some risk for adverse events [14].
- Operation-related complications after arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy are associated with the cyst's anatomical location distal to the bifurcation of the radial artery and penetration up to the superficial fascia layer [18].
- Patients whose occupation or activities require forceful wrist extension face a considerable risk of residual pain and functional limitations after open dorsal wrist ganglion excision [29].
Recovery¶
- Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy is a minimally invasive approach that offers better cosmesis and less soft tissue trauma [4].
- Arthroscopy is supported as a treatment for dorsal wrist ganglion based on outcomes, recurrence, and complication rates after 4 years of follow-up [9].
- In children with wrist ganglions, spontaneous resolution usually occurs within 18 months [11].
- In children aged <10 years, ganglions mainly occur on the volar wrist and can be treated expectantly [17].
- 69% to 79% of ganglions in children aged <10 years display spontaneous regression within a span of 12-18 months [17].
- Surgical intervention for wrist ganglions leaves scars and has some risk for adverse events [14].
- Routine midcarpal joint exploration during arthroscopic excision of dorsal wrist ganglions appeared to reduce recurrence at 1 year without negatively impacting patient outcomes [26].
- Complete resection of the ganglion stem and complete closure of the joint capsule is the most important step to avoid recurrences [46].
Key Evidence¶
- [L4] Surgical excision is a simple, safe, and effective method for treating a painful ganglion of the digital flexor tendon sheath. [1] (10.1007/s11552-007-9028-4)
- [L4] Percutaneous puncture is a practical option for managing flexor tendon sheath ganglions given its low cost, lack of downtime, and low recurrence rate, with no recurrences observed after a second puncture in this cohort. [2] (10.1177/17531934221115983)
- [L4] Pediatric ganglions are more commonly found on the volar surface of the hand and wrist and more commonly have tendon sheath origin compared to adults. [3] (10.1007/s11552-008-9122-2)
- [Paper] Endoscopic ganglionectomy via flexor carpi radialis tendoscopy is a minimally invasive approach that offers better cosmesis, less soft tissue trauma, and the ability to manage concomitant FCR tendon pathology, though it carries risks of recurrence and nerve or vessel injury. [4] (10.1016/j.eats.2017.06.002)
- [L4] There is no consensus within the literature regarding the best management of pediatric wrist ganglia, and no single treatment modality confers a particular advantage or disadvantage over another. [5] (10.1177/1558944720966716)
- [L4] Tendon associated ganglion cyst is not usual although flexor hallucis longus tendinopathy is common in athletes. [6] (10.1177/2325967114s00211)
- [L3] Women are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with a volar wrist ganglion, regardless of age or military status. [7] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.08.008)
- [L4] Arthroscopy allows for the simultaneous treatment of ganglions and other pathologies. [8] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.04.042)
- [L4] The outcomes, recurrence, and complications rates after 4 years of follow-up presented in this study support the use of arthroscopy as a treatment for dorsal wrist ganglion. [9] (10.1177/1558944717743601)
- [L4] In patients with the clinical diagnosis of wrist ganglion cyst, the quality of care would not be compromised by abandoning the practice of routine submission of surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of the ganglion cyst. [10] (10.1016/s0363-5023(10)60107-4)
- [L4] In a child with a wrist ganglion, if the cyst ultimately resolved, it usually did so within 18 months. [11] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2019.10.032)
- [L4] The study concludes that routinely performing wrist radiography is not cost-effective in the evaluation and treatment decision-making process for patients with a wrist ganglion due to a low prevalence of therapeutically significant findings. [12] (10.1007/s11552-007-9032-8)
- [L1] At 12 months follow-up, the rates of recurrence with arthroscopic dorsal ganglion excision are comparable with and not superior to those of open excision. [13] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.01.009)
- [L5] Current best evidence suggests that about 40% of lesions decrease over the first 6 years after evaluation by a hand surgeon, that most ganglions recur after aspiration, and that surgical intervention has about a 10% recurrence rate, leaves scars, and has some risk for adverse events. [14] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.11.048)
- [L4] Pediatric ganglions of the hand have a greater rate of resolution than ganglions of the wrist. [15] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.07.002)
- [L4] MRI is an excellent diagnostic modality to evaluate rapidly growing upper extremity masses and distinguish ganglions from malignant processes. [16] (10.1007/s11552-007-9083-x)
- [L4] In children aged <10 years, ganglions mainly occur on the volar wrist and can be treated expectantly, with 69% to 79% displaying spontaneous regression within a span of 12-18 months. [17] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.12.015)
- [L3] The operation-related complications after arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy are associated with its anatomical location: distal to the bifurcation of the radial artery and concurrently penetrated up to the superficial fascia layer. [18] (10.1186/s12891-025-08766-x)
- [L4] Ganglion cysts also have a high association with certain interosseous laxities, and recurrent ganglion cysts originating from the midcarpal joint are not contraindications for arthroscopic resection. [19] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2008.11.025)
- [L2] Ganglions in pediatric populations, which most commonly affect the dorsal wrist, demonstrate a female predilection. [20] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.02.026)
- [L3] MRI scans provide relatively good reliability in establishing the diagnosis of an occult dorsal wrist ganglion, with a sensitivity of 83% when using intra-operative findings as the standard. [21] (10.1177/1753193408092041)
- [L4] Intraneural ganglions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a mass in the vicinity of a nerve. [22] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.05.025)
- [Paper] This method is safer and more reliable for treating volar wrist ganglia. [23] (10.1016/j.eats.2011.12.007)
- [L4] This case highlights the value of advanced imaging in patients presenting with an atraumatic, painful, and progressive elbow contracture. [24] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.06.005)
- [L3] This study suggests that, in patients with the clinical diagnosis of wrist ganglion cyst, quality of care would not be compromised by abandoning the practice of routinely submitting surgical specimens for pathological examination after excision of the ganglion cyst. [25] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2010.03.021)
- [L3] Routine midcarpal joint exploration during arthroscopic excision of dorsal wrist ganglions appeared to reduce recurrence at 1 year without negatively impacting patient outcomes. [26] (10.1177/17531934251405730)
- [L5] Surgical recurrence rates range from 4% to 40%, and complications include infection, nerve injury, and wrist stiffness. [27] (10.1016/j.hcl.2004.03.015)
- [L3] The incidence of dorsal wrist ganglia was higher in the military compared with the civilian population. [28] (10.1016/j.jhsg.2020.08.001)
- [L4] Patients whose occupation or activities require forceful wrist extension should be counseled on the considerable risk of residual pain and functional limitations that may occur after open dorsal wrist ganglion excision. [29] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.05.030)
- [L4] Every attempt should be made to identify and excise the articular branch of the involved nerve. [30] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.06.095)
- [L2] Worse hand function was associated with recurrence following prior surgery, worse baseline hand function and lower treatment credibility. [31] (10.1177/17531934231153029)
- [L4] This case highlights the importance of considering uncommon aetiologies in patients with atypical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. [32] (10.1177/17531934241227809)
- [L4] Arthroscopic resection is an effective treatment strategy for intra-articular synovial ganglions refractory to conservative measures, providing complete resolution of symptoms and functional recovery with minimal soft tissue damage. [34] (10.1016/j.jhsg.2024.05.007)
- [L4] Arthroscopic ganglionectomy through an intrafocal cystic portal is a safe and efficacious option for the treatment of painful wrist ganglia. [35] (10.1016/j.arthro.2009.08.021)
- [L4] Sonography-guided wrist arthroscopy provides several advantages for surgeons, including visualization of the ganglions and ganglion stalk, as well as of the arthroscopic shaver and adjacent structures such as nerves, vessels, and tendons to perform surgery safely. [36] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.04.012)
- [L4] Nonsurgical treatment is largely ineffective in treating ganglion cysts, though it may be considered for symptomatic relief in patients who do not want surgery. [37] (10.1155/2013/940615)
- [L4] Arthroscopic debridement of ganglion cyst offers excellent outcome without recurrence. [38] (10.1186/1471-2474-13-137)
- [L1] Open surgical excision offers significantly lower chance of recurrence compared with aspiration in the treatment of wrist ganglions. [39] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.12.014)
- [L4] Ganglion aspiration should be considered as a first-line intervention, with surgical excision remaining an effective option for symptomatic cases. [40] (10.1177/1753193411434376)
- [L3] Radiologists are less likely to identify occult dorsal ganglion cysts on MRI if the cyst is smaller or if the requisition form does not mention a cyst. [41] (10.1055/s-0039-1683847)
- [Case_report] Intra-articular ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments are difficult to diagnose and do not necessarily require specific clinical symptoms or previous trauma; preoperative MRI is essential for diagnosis, and the condition can be successfully treated by arthroscopy. [42] (10.1007/s00402-003-0494-z)
- [L4] Ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments can easily be detected by MRI and should be arthroscopically resected. [43] (10.1007/s00402-011-1286-5)
- [Paper] The technique provides good results regarding cyst resorption with fewer complications such as joint stiffness and vascular disturbances. [45] (10.1016/j.eats.2015.05.011)
- [L4] Complete resection of the ganglion stem and complete closure of the joint capsule is the most important step to avoid recurrences. [46] (10.1007/s001670050073)
- [L4] Type A ganglion cysts of the radiocapitellar joint may involve compression of the superficial radial nerve. [50] (10.1016/j.otsr.2016.05.014)
- [L3] Patients with wrist hyperlaxity have a predisposition to developing ganglions, a finding corroborated by independent investigations using similar prospective cohort designs. [53] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.11.025)
- [L4] Dominant side, female sex, and age of 24 years or less are considered to be the most influential risk factors for recurrence after arthroscopic excision of dorsal wrist ganglia. [55] (10.1016/j.arthro.2013.04.002)
References¶
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