Patient outcomes following wrist ganglion excision surgery

Abstract

We present patient outcomes following surgical excision of primary wrist ganglia over a 5 year period. Patients (48 of 59; 81%) responded to a questionnaire by post or telephone, with a mean time to follow-up of 44 (range 21–77) months. There was a statistically significant reduction in all reported symptoms, including pain, paraesthesia, weakness, stiffness, and cosmesis. The recurrence rate was 8%. In total, 98% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with treatment. Surgical excision of primary wrist ganglia may have advantages over aspiration and reassurance alone, particularly in reducing recurrence and hastening resolution of symptoms.