Comparison of Thread Technique Versus Aspiration Plus Steroid Injection for Wrist Ganglion Recurrence

Plain-language summary

This study is a randomized controlled trial comparing two treatment methods for wrist ganglion cysts to evaluate which method has a lower recurrence rate. Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps commonly found on the wrist, arising from joint capsules or tendon sheaths. They are often painless but may cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. The primary objective of this study was to compare the recurrence rates of wrist ganglia treated with two methods: Thread technique: Inserting a silk thread through the cyst to allow drainage. Aspiration plus steroid injection: Removing the cyst fluid with a needle followed by injecting a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. Study Design The trial was conducted at HIT Hospital, Taxila, from June to December 2020. It included 60 participants aged 18-50 years, divided equally into two groups. Group A underwent the thread technique, and Group B received aspiration and steroid injections. Patients were followed up at intervals of 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months to monitor for cyst recurrence. Methods Thread Technique: A silk suture was passed through the cyst, allowing its contents to drain. Patients were instructed to massage the area daily for one week. The thread was removed once drainage ceased. Aspiration and Steroid Injection: Fluid was removed using a needle, and 40 mg of methylprednisolone acetate was injected into the cyst cavity. Both procedures were performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.

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