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What is a glomus tumor?
A glomus tumor is a rare, benign (non-cancerous) growth that arises from the glomus body, a part of the skin involved in temperature regulation. These tumors are most commonly found under the fingernails or in the fingertips, but can also occur in the wrist, forearm, or elsewhere in the body.
Despite being small in size, glomus tumors can cause intense pain, sensitivity to temperature (especially cold), and localized tenderness, significantly affecting daily life and hand function.
Common symptoms of glomus tumor
Glomus tumors typically present with a classic triad of symptoms:
- Severe, localized pain (often described as sharp or stabbing).
- Sensitivity to cold.
- Point tenderness – pain focused on a very specific area.
Additional symptoms may include:
- Bluish or reddish discoloration under the nail.
- Nail deformity or ridging.
- Visible swelling (in some cases).
Pain from glomus tumors is often triggered or worsened by touch, pressure, or exposure to cold temperatures.
What causes a glomus tumor?
Glomus tumors develop from glomus bodies, which help regulate blood flow and Glomus tumors originate from the glomus body, which is part of the body’s thermoregulatory system. The exact cause of their formation is unknown, but they are typically:
- Solitary and slow-growing.
- More common in adults aged 20 to 50.
- Slightly more prevalent in females.
- Occasionally hereditary in multiple tumor cases (glomangiomatosis).
How to diagnose a glomus tumor?
Clinical evaluation
Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination. A healthcare provider may perform tests such as:
- Love’s pin test: Applying pressure with a pin or pointed object to elicit sharp, localized pain.
- Cold sensitivity test: Observing pain increases with exposure to cold.
- Hildreth’s test: Applying a tourniquet to reduce blood flow and checking for pain relief (supportive of diagnosis).
Imaging studies
- MRI scan: The most accurate imaging method for detecting glomus tumors, especially subungual (under the nail) tumors.
- Ultrasound: Useful in locating the tumor and assessing its size and depth.
- X-ray: May show bone erosion in long-standing cases.
Glomus tumor treatment in Ahmedabad
Surgical removal: The definitive treatment
The only proven and effective treatment for glomus tumors is surgical excision. Because glomus tumors are benign but deeply embedded within the soft tissue—often near nerves and blood vessels—medications, topical treatments, or other conservative approaches offer no long-term relief. In fact, delaying surgery can result in prolonged pain and worsening sensitivity.
What to expect during surgery?
Glomus tumor excision is a minor surgical procedure but requires precision and expertise due to the tumor’s small size and delicate location, especially when located under the fingernail (subungual).
Key aspects of surgical excision:
- Anesthesia: The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia (numbing only the affected finger or hand) or regional anesthesia (blocking sensation in the entire arm). This ensures a pain-free experience during surgery.
- Microsurgical or Minimally invasive techniques: Because glomus tumors are tiny and often located in sensitive areas, microsurgical tools and magnification (surgical loupes or microscopes) are used for precise removal without damaging surrounding tissues.
- Nail lifting (if subungual): If the tumor lies beneath the fingernail, the nail plate is carefully lifted or temporarily removed to expose the tumor. After tumor removal, the nail is usually replaced or allowed to grow back naturally.
- Complete tumor removal: The surgeon carefully excises the entire tumor along with its capsule to reduce the risk of recurrence. Incomplete removal can lead to persistent or returning symptoms.
- Duration: The procedure usually takes 30–45 minutes, depending on the tumor’s location and complexity.
- Outpatient procedure: Most surgeries are done on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
Recovery after surgery
Recovery from glomus tumor surgery is generally quick and smooth, especially with proper post-operative care.
What to expect after surgery:
- Immediate pain relief: Most patients experience significant or complete relief of pain immediately after the tumor is removed. Long-standing pain that was unresponsive to medication often disappears almost instantly.
- Swelling & Mild discomfort: It’s normal to have some mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the area for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications are usually sufficient to manage this.
- Wound care:
- A light dressing is applied to keep the wound clean.
- Patients are advised to keep the hand elevated and avoid getting the area wet for a few days.
- Sutures (if used) may be removed after 7–10 days, or they may be dissolvable depending on the technique.
- A light dressing is applied to keep the wound clean.
- Nail growth (if nail was removed): If the nail was lifted or removed during surgery, it generally grows back within 4–6 months, though temporary changes in nail shape or thickness may occur.
- Return to activity:
- Light hand activities (e.g., typing, writing, dressing) can often be resumed within 2–3 days.
- Strenuous hand use, contact sports, or heavy lifting should be avoided until the wound heals fully.
- Light hand activities (e.g., typing, writing, dressing) can often be resumed within 2–3 days.
- Physical therapy: In rare cases—especially if the tumor was large, long-standing, or near a nerve—patients may benefit from hand therapy or physiotherapy to regain full movement, strength, or desensitization.
Long-term outcomes
- Recurrence: When the tumor is completely removed, recurrence is extremely rare. If symptoms return, it may indicate incomplete excision or the development of a new tumor.
- Scarring & Cosmetic outcome: Scars are generally minimal and well-hidden, especially when surgery is performed by a skilled hand surgeon. If the nail was involved, final cosmetic appearance depends on nail regrowth and healing.
When to contact your doctor post-surgery?
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Excessive pain that doesn’t improve with medication.
- Persistent swelling or redness.
- Drainage, pus, or foul odor from the wound.
- Delayed wound healing or nail growth issues.
What makes us the best hospital for glomus tumor treatment in Ahmedabad?
At Krisha Hand Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and treating rare hand conditions like glomus tumors with precision, care, and a patient-first approach. Here’s why patients from across Ahmedabad and beyond trust us for glomus tumor treatment:
Expertise of Dr. Karn Maheshwari
He is a highly skilled hand & wrist surgeon specialized in treating glomus tumors. His specialized knowledge ensures that you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your individual needs.
Personalized treatment plans
We believe that no two patients are the same. Dr. Maheshwari tailors each treatment plan based on your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences, ensuring you get the most effective and least invasive care possible.
Minimally invasive surgery
When surgery is necessary, we use the latest techniques to reduce scarring, shorten recovery times, and get you back to your daily activities faster.
State-of-the-art facility
Our hospital is equipped with modern medical technologies, ensuring precise diagnostics and advanced treatment options for every patient.
Patient-centric care
From your first consultation to your follow-up care, our team is dedicated to providing a comfortable, compassionate experience. We prioritize open communication, answering all your questions and keeping you informed every step of the way.
Awards & Achievements
What our patients say about their hand treatment
- B-201, 2nd Floor, Shaligram Lakeview, Nr Vaishnodevi Circle, S.P. Ring Road, Highway, Service Rd, Vaishnodevi, Zundal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382421
- Mon–Sat: 11:00 AM – 01:00 PM
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Emergency: 24/7 Available
FAQs about glomus tumor
All glomus tumor surgeries at Krisha Hand Hospital are performed by Dr. Karn Maheshwari, a renowned Hand and Wrist Specialist with extensive experience in microsurgery and nail-bed procedures. You are in expert hands.
We conduct a detailed clinical examination followed by specialized imaging, such as MRI or ultrasound, if required. This ensures accurate identification of the glomus tumor’s size and location for precise surgical planning.
In most cases, we schedule the surgery for a later date to allow for pre-operative assessment and imaging. However, in urgent or straightforward cases, same-day procedures can be considered depending on availability and medical readiness.
We typically use local or regional anesthesia. The procedure is minimally invasive and patients remain comfortable and awake throughout.
No, glomus tumor removal is usually performed as a day-care procedure. After a short observation period post-surgery, you’ll be discharged the same day with clear recovery instructions.
After your glomus tumor surgery, you’ll be scheduled for regular follow-up appointments at the hospital. These appointments help monitor your recovery, address any concerns, and guide you through any necessary rehabilitation. Our commitment to your long-term health means that we’re with you every step of the way—from the operating room to full recovery.
Yes, patient safety is our top priority. All surgeries are performed under strict sterile conditions, with experienced surgical staff and state-of-the-art equipment. Dr. Karn Maheshwari uses minimally invasive techniques to ensure a safe, precise, and effective surgery with minimal risks.
We offer advanced microsurgical treatment for glomus tumors. Dr. Karn Maheshwari specializes in precise, minimally invasive surgery to completely remove the tumor, ensuring relief from pain and preventing recurrence.
To schedule an appointment, you can call our hospital or book an appointment online. Our staff will assist you with the scheduling process and provide you with any necessary information.
