INTRODUCTIONHere you'll find a general overview of what a ganglion is and how it can be treated. It's important to remember that when a condition is diagnosed, the situation can be different for everyone.WHAT IS A GANGLION?A ganglion is an encapsulated sac filled with a yellowish lubricating substance. It arises from the joint capsule or from a tendon sheath. It is most common on the wrist, usually on the back, but sometimes on the inner side.
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Photo: GEMalone - Wikimedia (Creative Commons License 3.0 ).
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?If symptoms persist, treatment is considered. The first treatment generally involves aspiration of the ganglion and injection of a corticosteroid with anesthetic fluid or another preparation to seal the cavity. This treatment involves puncturing the ganglion.
If the ganglion persists or recurs, the option is between a second puncture and surgery.THE OPERATIONIf you have heart or lung problems or are taking medication (particularly blood thinners), you must inform your doctor before the surgery. The procedure is performed in the outpatient operating room and can be performed under local anesthesia, but sometimes it is desirable to numb the entire arm. The "sac" is usually easily removed through a small incision. The removed ganglion may be examined by a pathologist.POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSNo procedure is without the risk of complications. The risk of postoperative bleeding or wound infection is small. If this occurs, you should contact the hospital.
There is a chance you will develop a ganglion cyst again later.AFTER THE TREATMENTYou can go home after about half an hour, unless your entire arm is numb. In that case, you will leave the hospital after the anesthesia wears off. The wound area will be somewhat tender. An appointment will be made for the removal of the stitches. Once the ganglion has been examined, you will receive the results during the follow-up check.FINALLYThis information was compiled by the Public Information Committee of the Dutch Association of Surgical Professionals. Existing information materials from Westeinde Hospital in The Hague and IJsselland Hospital in Capelle aan den IJssel were gratefully used.
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