What are ganglion cysts and how are they treated?

Sack of fluid: A ganglion cyst is a sack of fluid, usually from a joint capsule or tendon sheath. These are benign growths that rarely cause pain. Initial treatment is with ice, immobilization and nsaid's. Cysts that are still symptomatic after treatment or those that are very large can be surgically removed. Aspiration or drainage of these cysts is rarely sucessful. See a board certified orthopaedic hand doc.

A benign lesion: Consisting of a fluid filled sac or cyst. It is important to have contents aspirated to be sent to a lab and not simply thrown out. There are some lesions that are malignant that present in a similiar fashion and hence, any fluid aspirated is better send off for analysis than sitting in the bottom of the garbage.

Fluid from a joint: There are not many problems associated with the wrists short of bony abnormalities. One common problem that can occur at the level of the wrists or coming from any joint is called a ganglion cyst. Ganglion cysts are not usually associated with much pain or discomfort until they become large. They extends from the joint space. It's, like blowing up a tiny balloon from between your knuckles. These often bust when a person bumps them. They will reoccur unless they are surgically tied off. I suggest you see an orthopedic surgeon to further assess and evaluate.