Ganglions
Ganglion Cysts
Common Patient Questions:
- What is this lump on my wrist?
- Can a ganglion cyst go away on its own?
- Should I get it drained or removed surgically?
- Is it dangerous if I leave it alone?
What Is This Lump on My Wrist?
Understanding Ganglion Cysts
By David Bodansky, Consultant Hand & Wrist Surgeon
If you’ve noticed a smooth, firm lump on your wrist that seems to appear out of nowhere—especially when bending the wrist or bearing weight—it’s likely a ganglion cyst. These are among the most common lumps in the hand and wrist, and they often raise a lot of questions.
Let’s go through what ganglion cysts are and how we decide whether or not to treat them.
What is this lump on my wrist?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that arises from a joint or tendon sheath—most commonly:
- On the back of the wrist (dorsal ganglion)
- On the palm side, near the thumb
- Around the base of a finger (called a mucous cyst or volar retinacular cyst)
They are filled with joint fluid and connected to the underlying joint or tendon by a narrow stalk.
Ganglion cysts are benign (non-cancerous), but they can cause:
- Discomfort or aching, especially with movement
- Pressure on nearby nerves, causing tingling or weakness
- Cosmetic concerns due to their appearance
Can a ganglion cyst go away on its own?
Yes—some ganglion cysts do disappear spontaneously, especially in younger people. In fact:
- Up to 50% resolve without any treatment
- Size may fluctuate over time depending on wrist activity
- Mild cysts that aren’t painful or limiting are often simply observed
However, cysts that persist or cause symptoms can be effectively treated.
Should I get it drained or removed surgically?
That depends on your symptoms, activity level, and preference. There are two main options:
Aspiration (draining the cyst)
- Performed in clinic using a needle
- Quick and non-invasive
- May provide temporary relief
- Recurrence is common (over 50%) since the stalk remains
Surgical removal
- Done under local or general anaesthetic
- Involves removing the cyst and its stalk to reduce recurrence
- Outpatient procedure with small incision and short recovery
- Recurrence rate is lower (10–20%)
Surgery is often considered if the cyst:
- Returns repeatedly after aspiration
- Causes pain, weakness, or nerve symptoms
- Interferes with work, sport, or daily activities
Is it dangerous if I leave it alone?
No—ganglion cysts are not dangerous, and leaving one alone is a safe option if it’s:
- Not painful
- Not growing rapidly
- Not interfering with function
That said, if you notice sudden changes, increasing discomfort, or signs of nerve compression (numbness, weakness), it’s worth getting it checked to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other rare causes of wrist lumps.
When to See a Specialist
If your wrist lump is painful, persistent, or concerning—or simply bothers you—it’s worth having it assessed by a hand specialist. Diagnosis is typically straightforward, often confirmed with a physical exam and ultrasound or MRI if needed.
Noticed a wrist lump or cyst that won’t go away?
At davidbodansky.com, I offer expert evaluation and treatment for ganglion cysts, including aspiration and modern surgical excision techniques—tailored to your lifestyle and goals.