Treatment of Distal Interphalangeal Ganglion Cysts by Volar Corticosteroid Injection

Abstract

Background: Various options exist for operative and nonoperative treatment of symptomatic distal interphalangeal (DIP) ganglion cysts. We describe the technique and efficacy of a novel treatment of DIP ganglion cysts using a volar, transtendon, intra-articular injection of corticosteroid. Methods: This was a single center, retrospective study (2010-2015) of 21 patients who received a volar, intra-articular corticosteroid injection for treatment of DIP ganglion cysts. The patients were contacted via mailing with a short survey. For those potential study participants who did not respond to the mailing or were not seen in follow-up, contact was made via telephone. The primary study outcome was resolution of the cyst; secondary outcomes included pain and postinjection complications. Results: A total of 21 patients (14 female; 7 male) with 23 DIP ganglion cysts were treated in this study. The dominant hand was involved in 56.5% cases. Twelve (52.2%) resolved or had near complete resolution following injection at an average follow-up of 20 months. Conclusions: For patients with DIP ganglion cysts, this newly described technique of volar, transtendon, intra-articular injection of corticosteroid provides a safe and effective treatment. This technique allows for ease and consistency of needle placement for intra-articular corticosteroid delivery while minimizing the potential soft tissue and infection concerns described with other techniques.