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Ganglion Recurrence Rates After a Simple Puncture and a Review of the Literature
Nathan C Winek1, Mark Ren1, Grace Kirkwood1
1Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, USA.
Cureus
|June 13, 2025
Summary
Simple needle puncture for hand and wrist ganglia resulted in a 56% recurrence rate but high patient satisfaction. This procedure is a reasonable, low-complication first step for ganglion treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Hand Surgery
- Musculoskeletal Conditions
Background:
- Ganglia are common symptomatic hand masses.
- Nonsurgical treatments for ganglia include observation, rupture, puncture, and aspiration.
- Literature shows variable recurrence rates for aspiration and puncture methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine recurrence rates and patient satisfaction following simple needle puncture of hand and wrist ganglia.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing simple ganglion puncture (2020-2022).
- Diagnosis confirmed by expression of mucinous fluid upon puncture.
- Data collected via chart review and patient telephone follow-up for recurrence and satisfaction.
Main Results:
- 56% of ganglia recurred with an average time to recurrence of 43 weeks.
- 79% of patients would choose simple puncture again; 76% reflected favorably on the procedure.
- Repeat puncture in recurrent cases had a 75% recurrence rate.
Conclusions:
- Simple needle puncture for hand and wrist ganglia shows a 56% recurrence rate but high patient satisfaction.
- The procedure is a reasonable, low-complication first-line treatment option.
- Puncture can also serve to immediately confirm the diagnosis of a ganglion.
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