Wrist cyst

A wrist cyst is a swelling at the wrist. It can occur on either the upper (dorsal) or lower (volar) side. They consist of a thin wall filled with fluid coming from the wrist joint.

Symptoms

A wrist cyst is very common and usually without an underlying cause. Often they cause no pain symptoms and thus do not require treatment. However, if the cyst grows larger, pain symptoms may develop.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is usually made based on the clinical examination and the typical appearance of the wrist cyst. If necessary, additional ultrasound may be requested for confirmation.

‍Treatment

A wrist cyst should be treated only if it has become too large and causes pain or movement restrictions. Draining the cyst is usually only a temporary solution. Often, surgical removal of the wrist cyst is performed anyway. This is done via day surgery. After the surgery, if necessary, a cast is put on for a short period of time after which you may return to normal wrist movement.

Departments

For more information, please visit the orthopaedics department.

Telephone 011 33 42 86