What is a ganglion? All joints have a thin inner membrane. On the outside of the joint is a thick outer membrane called the capsule. In patients between 15 – 30 yrs. this thin inner membrane bulges out through a small defect in the capsule and forms a fluid filled bubble on the outside of the joint. The neck of the bubble acts like a one directional valve, which prevents fluid from escaping back to the wrist joint. Over time the bubble becomes bigger and bigger.
Important remark: In older patients a ganglion is rather a sign that something else is causing the joint to produce excess fluid. The increase in pressure inside the joint then pushes the thin membrane through an opening in the capsule, causing a ganglion.
How do we treat a ganglion? A ganglion should only be removed if it causes discomfort and keeps on getting bigger.
Some doctors will try to suck some of the fluid out of the ganglion with a needle and syringe.
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