Arthroscopic volar wrist ganglionectomy

As an original technique developed by our department, the preliminary result of arthroscopic resection of volar wrist ganglion was first published in 2003. Since then, there were few reports in the literature concerning this new treatment method. The aim of the study is to evaluate the long-term outcome of this treatment technique. From August 1997 to April 2005, 21 volar wrist ganglia with average size of 2 cm (range 1-4 cm) were treated. The average age of patients was 48.6 (range 18-63). Thirteen ganglia had previous treatment including either aspiration or open excision. Seventy-one percent of the operations were performed under local anesthesia. Wrist arthrogram was performed in 9 cases. Seven cases showed origin from radiocarpal joint and all proceeded to arthroscopic resection successfully. Arthroscopically, 75% of ganglia arose from the interval between radioscaphocapitate and long radiolunate ligament, and 25% from the interval between long radiolunate and short radiolunate ligament. Sixteen of the 21 ganglia could be excised by arthroscopic technique. The average follow up was 56 months (range 9-101 months). There were 2 recurrences. One was treated with repeated arthroscopic excision and the other by open excision. There was no impairment of wrist motion and function in all patients. No neurovascular complication was encountered. Arthroscopic resection was an effective treatment method for well-selected volar wrist ganglion arising from the radiocarpal joint in long run.