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Ganglion cyst removal surgery: Procedure & Recovery timeline
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Ganglion cysts are common, benign lumps that typically develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. Although often painless, they can sometimes cause discomfort, limit movement, or become cosmetically bothersome. When conservative treatments fail or symptoms worsen, surgical removal of the ganglion cyst may be recommended.
This blog will walk you through the ganglion cyst removal surgery procedure and what to expect during the recovery process.
What is a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that arises from the tissues surrounding joints or tendons. It feels like a smooth, firm bump under the skin, most often found on the back of the wrist but can also occur on the palm side or fingers. The exact cause is unclear, but repetitive stress or joint irritation may contribute to their formation.
Surgery is considered when:
- The cyst causes persistent pain or discomfort.
- It limits wrist or finger movement.
- The cyst is large or unsightly and affects daily activities.
- Other treatments, such as aspiration or splinting, fail to resolve the cyst.
Before surgery, your doctor will review your medical history and may order imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI to understand the cyst’s size and location.
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, numbing only the affected area. In some cases, regional or general anesthesia may be used.
3. Surgical removal
The surgeon makes a small incision over the cyst and carefully removes the cyst along with its stalk or connection to the joint or tendon sheath. Removing the stalk is important to reduce the risk of recurrence.
4. Closing the incision
After removal, the incision is closed with stitches. A sterile dressing or bandage is applied to protect the site.
5. Duration
The surgery typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and is usually performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home the same day.
Recovery timeline after ganglion cyst removal
Week 1:
- Keep your hand elevated to reduce swelling.
- Follow wound care instructions to prevent infection.
- Limit movement of the wrist or fingers as advised.
- You may experience mild pain, managed with prescribed medications.
Weeks 2 to 4:
- Stitches are usually removed after 10 to 14 days.
- Gradual return to normal activities as swelling decreases.
- Gentle hand and wrist exercises may be recommended to restore mobility.
Weeks 4 to 6:
- Most patients regain full use of their hand and wrist.
- Any residual stiffness or discomfort typically improves with therapy.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until cleared by your surgeon.
Long-term:
- Recurrence rates vary but can be reduced by complete removal of the cyst and stalk.
- Follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and address any complications.
Risks & Complications
Like any surgery, ganglion cyst removal carries risks such as infection, nerve injury, stiffness, or cyst recurrence. Discuss these with your surgeon to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Ganglion cyst removal surgery is a safe and effective way to relieve symptoms and improve hand function when conservative treatments don’t help. Proper post-operative care and rehabilitation are key to a smooth recovery.
If you are experiencing discomfort or limited movement due to a ganglion cyst, the expert team at Krisha Hand Hospital, Ahmedabad is here to provide personalized treatment and support every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Author bio
Dr. Karn Maheshwari is the founder of Krisha Hand Hospital, Ahmedabad, established in 2016. He is the only fnb-qualified hand surgeon across Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
With MS and DNB in orthopedics, Dr. Maheshwari specializes in treating a wide range of hand and wrist conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, sports hand injuries, orthopedic hand surgery, ganglion cysts, mangled hand injuries, congenital hand differences, brachial plexus palsy, cerebral palsy & spastic hand, hand tendinopathy, hand microsurgery, hand swelling, hand transplants, hand reimplantation, rheumatoid hand deformities, and peripheral nerve injuries & compressive neuropathies.
Dr. Maheshwari’s unmatched expertise and patient-centric approach ensure world-class treatment, advanced surgical solutions, and optimal recovery for patients with complex hand and wrist conditions.
FAQs
The procedure is done under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery, which can be managed with medication.
Light work can usually be resumed within 1-2 weeks, but avoid heavy lifting until fully healed.
There is a small chance of recurrence, especially if the cyst stalk is not completely removed. For more information, read our blog on “Can a ganglion cyst come back after surgery?”
Yes, aspiration (draining the cyst with a needle) is an option, but cysts often return without surgery.
Typically, 30 to 60 minutes, and it is usually done as an outpatient procedure.
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