What to expect
Ganglions often change size, and around half disappear on their own over time. If a swelling is soft, transilluminates (glows when a light is shone through it) and sits in a typical spot, the diagnosis is usually straightforward; a scan is occasionally used to confirm it.
When treatment helps
A ganglion that causes no trouble can safely be left alone. Treatment is worthwhile when the swelling is painful, interferes with movement or grip, or presses on a nerve.
Treatment options
Aspiration draws the fluid off with a needle. It is quick and low risk, though the ganglion refills in a significant proportion of cases.
Surgical excision removes the ganglion together with its root from the joint or tendon sheath, giving the lowest chance of it returning. Wrist ganglions are removed as a day-case procedure.
Recovery
After aspiration, normal use resumes straight away. After excision the wrist is bandaged briefly and most activities are comfortable within two to three weeks, with the scar softening over a few months.
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. The British Society for Surgery of the Hand also publishes helpful patient guides. For advice about your own hand, book an assessment.