Common lumps found in the hand or wrist that can be painful and cysts occasionally change size or disappear completely. Treatment may not be required as these cysts are not malignant. However, if the cyst is painful, limits activity or the patient does not like the appearance then treatment can be recommended.

The cyst can be removed through aspiration, although this has at least a 60% return rate. The cyst can be removed at the source surgically although this may require removal of a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath. A wrist splint may be recommended following surgery and some patients may feel tenderness, discomfort and swelling post operatively. Surgery offers the best success in removing ganglions however it is important to note that they may return.