CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Ganglion
A benign mass, cyst or swelling overlying a joint or tendon that commonly appears on your wrist or finger joints.
About a ganglion
The clinical presentation of a ganglion is a visible bump. The exact cause of a ganglion is unknown but ultimately, a ganglion is a fluid-filled sac that arises from a tendon or joint that may be irritated.
Need to know
Although ganglion's are often symptom-free, they can become painful with certain activities, movements or positions. This can interfere with everyday functions and typically come and go. Ganglion's can also press against a nerve, causing pins and needles, numbness or generalised discomfort. Aside from serious medical consequences, you might simply be unhappy due to the general appearance of the bump.
The diagnosis of a ganglion is typically straightforward. Our hand specialists are able to quickly diagnose and recommend the most appropriate form of treatment.
Non-invasive treatment options may include:
- rest and/or splinting, limiting movement and load through the joint to reduce irritation to the ganglion
- aspiration, draining of the fluid-filled sac using a needle; sometimes a steroid injection is recommended
Surgical removal of a ganglion may be suitable when the lump is persistent and causing other issues.
Our Ganglion locations
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, London SW1W 8RH
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street London SE1 2PR
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place London NW8 9LE
The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way Birmingham B15 2TQ
Patient stories
Georgia's story
At just 20 years old, Georgia was about to fulfil her dream of opening her own beauty salon when persistent symptoms led to an unexpected diagnosis of bowel cancer.
Hallie's story
When six-year-old Hallie was admitted to The Portland Hospital in July, her parents were facing an anxious wait. What began as abdominal pain led to a query of appendicitis and, following surgery, concerns around possible sepsis.
Mark's story
For years, left leg pain had been an irritating thing in Mark’s life. “I had a dull, constant ache behind my knee and in my calf when I was standing, especially towards the end of the day when I had been up and about a lot.”
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.