Ganglion cysts are lumps found in the hand and wrist. They arise from the capsule of a joint or the sheath of a tendon, and compose of a sac filled with thick, clear, mucus-like fluid.

The cause of ganglions is unknown and most of the time they are harmless and will often disappear with time. In some cases, however,  these cyst puts pressure on the nerves that pass through the joint causing pain especially with constant repetitive use of the hand. Their appearance may also be unsightly.

Non-surgical treatments such as immobilisation or aspiration (needle drainage of cyst fluid) are associated with a high rate of recurrence. The goal of surgery is to remove the cyst in one piece as well as the source. The procedure may require removal of a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath from where the cyst arises.

The surgery is performed as an outpatient.