Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration of Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are the most common form of soft-tissue swelling in the hand and wrist. Although benign, they can cause discomfort, especially when they increase in size or press on nearby structures such as nerves. Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration offers a safe, prompt, and minimally invasive solution for managing ganglion cysts.

What are ganglion cysts and what are their symptoms?

Ganglion cysts are benign fluid-filled sacs that most commonly appear on the back of the wrist, palm, or fingers. They are connected to the joint capsule or a tendon sheath and contain thick fluid similar to synovial fluid. The exact cause of ganglion cyst formation is not fully understood, but it may be related to repetitive strain or degenerative changes in the tissues that produce joint fluid, leading to the accumulation of fluid outside the joint.

Ganglia are more common in individuals who put frequent strain on their joints or perform repetitive hand movements, such as typing or manual labor, but they can also appear without an identifiable cause. Their size may vary, and they often fluctuate over time: they may grow, shrink, or temporarily disappear. Depending on their size and location, ganglion cysts may cause:

  • Visible swelling under the skin
  • Pain or a feeling of pressure, especially when located near a nerve
  • Reduced joint mobility or numbness
  • Psychological discomfort due to their appearance

What is the role of Ultrasound in treating ganglion cysts?

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound is highly valuable for both the diagnosis and treatment of ganglion cysts. It enables differential diagnosis from other soft-tissue masses, such as lipomas or tumors, and provides accurate assessment of the cyst’s size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures.

Once a ganglion cyst is diagnosed, a specialized Radiologist can perform Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration. This modern, minimally invasive procedure involves placing a fine needle into the cyst and aspirating the fluid. Aspiration may be followed by a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence. Continuous Ultrasound Guidance during the procedure ensures that the needle is precisely positioned, guaranteeing both the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

What are the advantages of Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration for ganglion cysts?

Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration is a safe, minimally invasive technique that allows for targeted and effective treatment of ganglion cysts without the need for surgery. It is an ideal option for patients who wish to avoid surgery and its associated recovery time, as it does not require incisions or stitches. This enables patients to return to daily activities immediately while minimizing the risk of complications.

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, is performed under local anesthesia, and is generally well tolerated by patients.

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Testimonials

  • An excellent scientist with advanced knowledge, capable of diagnosing damage caused by rheumatic diseases and thus contributing to their effective treatment. I hope there are more scientists like her so that patients can continue to enjoy a good quality of life, as these diseases are incurable.

    Alexia S.

  • I visited Ms. Plagou for a health problem I had with my right Achilles tendon. I congratulate her for her scientific expertise and her unique approach with patients. I thank her very much, and she deserves many congratulations, as do her polite associates.

    Nestoras N.

  • As a surgeon I must simply say, UNBELIEVABLE!! Within 15 minutes I was completely rid of the intense discomfort in my shoulder that had been bothering me for several years. My shoulder feels as it was 10 years ago. Zero pain, incredibly free movement. Congratulations, Mrs. Plagou.

    Dr. Dimitrios Alexopoulos

  • I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Athena Plagou. With the Barbotage method she applied, she relieved me from terrible pains I had been suffering from for several months due to calcifications in my shoulder.

    Before I learned about Dr. Plagou, I had tried cortisone injections, hyaluronic acid injections, and anti-inflammatory medications. Unfortunately, nothing yielded results.

    I underwent the Βarbotage procedure in her clinic, very easily and painlessly. When it was over, I had stopped feeling any pain, and it has been three years since then without the slightest discomfort.

    Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

    Mary P.

  • State-of-the-art clinic and equipment, exceptional doctor with extensive experience and impressive specialization.

    Eirini D.

  • Ms. Plagou is an excellent scientist with accurate diagnoses, distinguished in her field, and an exceptional person at the same time. She deserves congratulations!

    Dr. Chrysovalantou Souhlaki

  • I had been suffering from Calcific Tendonitis in my left shoulder for over three months, resulting in severe pain. Before I learned about Ms. Plagou, I had tried anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, physiotherapy, all without success, and I was on the verge of serious surgery with doubtful outcomes.

    I underwent Barbotage in her clinic very easily, quickly, and painlessly. As soon as the brief procedure was over, my pain ceased, I slept well, and I quickly resumed all my activities.

    I want to thank Ms. Plagou both for the impeccable handling of my problem stemming from her excellent scientific training, as well as for her kindness and friendly demeanor.

    Zoe K.

  • I am very grateful to Dr. Athena Plagou. With her high specialization and professionalism, she accurately diagnosed and successfully treated the tendonitis I suffered from in both of my shoulders.

    Other specialists I had consulted previously had suggested arthroscopy, which I did not want to undergo due to my age (86) and because the treatment was not guaranteed.

    With the special method used by Dr. Plagou, the fluid causing the pain was absorbed, and the pain was immediately relieved without recurrence for the past four months. Besides her high specialization and effectiveness, Dr. Plagou is also very friendly and fully explains to patients the cause of the problem and the treatment process. Her assistant is also very friendly and efficient. Sincere thanks again.

    Nikos K.

  • Her experience, her thoroughness and her love for what she does make her one of a kind. My daughter suffered for months with pain in her wrist. Having visited several orthopedists, having done magnetic resonance imaging and x-rays, only Mrs. Plagou found that she had fluid in her wrist and referred us to a pediatric rheumatologist.

    I recommend her. Her assistant is also extremely helpful and kind.

    Katerina A.

  • I want to publicly thank my colleague Athena Plagou for her immediate and effective intervention to treat the problem in my shoulder. The Barbotage method she applied, and in which she is specialized, quickly relieved me from the painful symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis. The return to my daily routine was immediate.

    Dr. Vicky Bizimi

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