Many people have a cyst in their finger. The most common type of cyst in the finger is called a “mucous cyst.” This type of cyst is filled with clear, sticky, thick fluid. Many years ago someone thought it looked like mucus, and then began calling it this.
There are many terms to describe this common condition including: ganglion cyst, synovial cyst, digital mucous cyst, and myxoid cyst. Most hand surgeons call these “mucous cysts.” These cysts are specifically located near the fingernail, often next to the cuticle. Many patients seek guidance from a dermatologist or primary care physician initially. In most cases, however, patients are referred to see a hand surgeon or orthopedic surgeon for definitive treatment. These cysts are not cancerous, but if they cause pain, fingernail deformity, or functional problems, surgery is typically recommended. Asymptomatic mucous cysts can be observed for spontaneous resolution in some cases.
A mucous cyst originates from the joint closest to the fingertip, called the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. One theory about the origin of a mucous cyst is that the cyst is full of fluid which has leaked out the joint. Most patients have wear and tear arthritis or “osteoarthritis” in the joint related to the mucous cyst. Often a bone spur or “osteophyte” is located in the joint at the base of the cyst.
When treating mucous cysts surgically, surgeons often excise the bone spur at the DIP joint in order to reduce the potential for cyst recurrence. Simply draining the cyst with a needle may be tempting, but this procedure has a higher recurrence rate. Patients should be advised against popping these cysts on their own, because doing so may result in a deep infection in the joint or bone.
Finger Cyst Surgery
The procedure to remove a mucous cyst is usually straightforward. The procedure takes 15-20 minutes to perform and the complication rate is low. The incision typically takes about 2 weeks to heal, during which time patients should keep the wound clean and protect the finger from overuse. Mild joint stiffness and scar tissue tenderness usually improve in a few weeks. Infections occur in less than 1% of surgical cases. The recurrence rate after mucous cyst surgery is between 5-10%. Most patients are pleased with their results from mucous cyst excision surgery. If you have a cyst in your finger, please seek consultation with a hand surgeon. Please call Raleigh Hand to Shoulder Center if you are in the Triangle area of North Carolina.