A simple method for wrist ganglion staining with diluted surgical marking pen ink in arthroscopic resection and avoiding dye leakage-related subcutaneous discoloration

Abstract

Arthroscopic resection of the wrist ganglion is commonly performed nowadays, and has a recurrence rate comparable to open excision. It is preferred by some surgeons due to the smaller and more cosmetic operative scar. When using the arthroscopic procedure, identification of the stalk of the ganglion can facilitate accurate resection. In order to achieve this, staining and enhancement of the ganglion through the use of surgical dye injection has been proposed by some surgeons. However, sterile surgical dye is sometimes not easily available, and leakage-related subcutaneous discoloration is sometimes a problem. We propose an easy method by using diluted surgical marking pen ink for wrist ganglion staining. Also, any subcutaneous leakage of the diluted dye, if it occurs, can be easily cleaned up during the arthroscopic ganglion resection.