I'd like a ganglion cyst removed - where do I go?

I've been to my GP twice now with attempting to get this dorsal ganglion removed and despite the fact that my fingers often go numb and tingle I'm continually told to wait. Its been about 18 months now and its becoming a joke. I'm starting to suspect he won't give me any kind of support and I don't know what to do next. What should be my next step?

Go to an orthopedic hand surgeon IMMEDIATELY, before it causes permanent nerve damage. They deal with ganglion cysts very frequently. I work for some of the most world reknown hand surgeons in the Philadelphia area. If you would like to know more information about them, go to www.handcenters.com.

What is a ganglion?

A ganglion is a sac-like swelling or cyst formed from the tissue that lines a joint or tendon. The tissue, called synovium, normally functions to produce lubricating fluid for these areas. A ganglion is a cyst formed by the synovium that is filled with a thick jelly-like fluid. While ganglia can follow local trauma to the tendon or joint, they usually form for unknown reasons. Occasionally, ganglia are early signs of arthritis that will become more obvious in the future.


Where do ganglia form and what symptoms do they cause?

Ganglia can form around any joint, but they are most frequently found in the wrist and ankles. They are usually painless and often barely visible as localized swellings. They typically do not appear to be inflamed. The largest ganglions form behind the back of the knee, causing a sense of fullness or tightness. A ganglion here is referred to as a Baker cyst, after the doctor who originally described the condition.


How are ganglia treated?

A ganglion can spontaneously rupture and go away. Other treatment options include removal of the ganglion fluid with a needle and syringe (aspiration) with or without an injection of cortisone medication. Occasionally, the entire ganglion is resected with surgery. People with a persisting or recurring ganglion should be evaluated for signs of systemic forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

You need to see an orthopedic doctor.