Treating And Managing Ganglion Cysts

Surgical Removal

Sometimes a ganglion cyst recurs after a physician aspirates the fluid one or more times. The cyst may grow in size and cause pain that cannot be managed well with medication, cause tingling or numbness, or restrict movement of the involved joint, which can be particularly troublesome when the dominant hand is involved.

A decision may be made to perform surgical removal with a procedure called ganglionectomy (excision of ganglion cyst). This is considered elective surgery and can be done in an outpatient setting. The patient can go home after a short time in observation. The surgical removal is often done arthroscopically, using a small incision through which the surgeon can insert an arthroscope. This tiny camera helps the surgeon visualize the cyst and remove it. The surgeon removes the cyst and a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath involved (the root of the ganglion). The excisions can be done with a larger incision which allows for visualization of the cyst and surrounding structures. Arthroscopic surgery has the advantages of shorter recovery time and a smaller remaining scar. Patients can return to normal activities in approximately two to six weeks after the operation.

Keep reading for more ways in which ganglion cysts can be managed and treated.