Clinical Results of Arthroscopic Resection of Dorsal Wrist Ganglion with a Minimum of 3 Years Follow-up

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Ganglion cysts are the most common benign tumors of the wrist. Their arthroscopic resection is becoming common. However, there are a limited number of studies comparing arthroscopic and open surgeries. This study evaluated the subjective and objective results of arthroscopy with a minimum of 3 years follow-up. Patients and Methods Patients with dorsal wrist ganglion who underwent arthroscopic ganglionectomy were evaluated regarding pain (using visual analog scale) and satisfaction as subjective results. We also evaluated their scar (with the Vancouver scar scale), range of motion, and recurrence as objective results. Results There were 20 patients in the study. Mean of follow-up time was 52.5 months. Recurrence rate was 5%, and visual analog scale of pain decreased from 3.7 to 0.5 at the final follow-up. Sixteen patients were completely satisfied, three patients were partially satisfied, and one patient was unsatisfied. The mean of Vancouver scar scale was 1.4 (range of 0–3). Improvement in range of flexion and extension of the wrist was significant without a significant complication. Conclusion Arthroscopic excision of dorsal wrist ganglion in the way described in this study is a safe and effective method that improves pain and range of motion of the wrist without major complications. The rate of recurrence was less than those reported for open surgery in long-term follow-up. The surgery scar has a promising score in Vancouver scar scale.