Wrist Nodule Surgery
A wrist nodule (ganglion cyst) is a fluid-filled lump that occurs near the joint or tendon of your wrist or hand. They often appear and disappear, change in size, or become painful.
Ganglions are non-cancerous, slow-growing and usually harmless. They can develop in several different locations, but most commonly occur on the back of your wrist.
They form out of the tissues surrounding a joint, like ligaments, tendon sheaths and joint linings. Inside the balloon-like swelling is a thick, slippery fluid that lubricates your joints and can help with pain and movement.
Surgical removal of a ganglion is typically done on an outpatient basis by a specialist. The procedure may be done using a traditional method or through arthroscopy, which allows doctors to operate on your wrist without large incisions and with minimal scarring.
Surgery for a wrist nodule involves making an incision at the site of the cyst and removing the ganglion itself as well as any affected parts of the strong tissues between your hand and wrist bones. Removing these structures reduces the chance that the ganglion will return.
The operation is carried out under local anaesthetic and takes about 20 minutes. A tourniquet, which is a blood pressure cuff around your upper arm, is used to prevent blood from obscuring the surgeon’s view.
If you need surgery for a wrist nodule, your doctor will talk to you about how you can prepare for the operation. You should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for a week or so before the surgery. Taking any medications you are prescribed as directed by your doctor is also important.
Most people experience less pain and discomfort after surgery than they did before the operation, but some may still have a small amount of swelling or stiffness. Your doctor will give you exercises and advice to relieve this. If you are concerned about your recovery, ask a nurse or occupational therapist for more information. 손목결절종 수술
Your doctor may suggest that you wear a brace or splint to protect the wound during healing. This will help reduce the risk of the cyst returning or causing more pain.
Physiotherapy or occupational therapy can also help you recover from the operation by re-learning how to use your hand and wrist. Your hand therapist can give you specific exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons that have been damaged during your surgery.
Rehabilitation for a wrist nodule can take a few weeks to two months. After surgery, you should try to avoid activities that require repetitive hand or wrist movements for 1 to 2 weeks. If you are working in a job that requires you to use your hands or wrists regularly, talk to your doctor about how you can minimize the impact of your work.
Your doctor will also advise you on how to care for your hand and wrist following surgery. It is important to elevate your hand above your heart to reduce swelling and use ice packs when you feel any swelling or discomfort. Your doctor can also prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to treat any infection that might develop. 두팔로정형외과