Excision of a ganglion cyst

Ganglion cysts often cause no symptoms so they may be left untreated. However, if they cause pain or discomfort, or restrict movement, and affect your quality of life, then they can be successfully treated by aspiration or excision.

I have a question about ganglion cyst removal

What is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a fluid filled swelling which develops near to a joint or a tendon. The cyst usually feels like a smooth lump just under the skin and can range in size from a pea to a golf ball.

What is an excision of a ganglion cyst?

Ganglion cysts often cause no symptoms so they may be left untreated. However, if there is pain or if the cyst affects movement of a joint, then there are two main treatment options available: aspiration of a ganglion cyst (draining fluid out with a syringe) or excision of a ganglion cyst (cutting the cyst out during surgery)

Excision of a ganglion cyst (cutting the cyst out during surgery), can be carried out in two different ways, either using open surgery or using arthroscopic (or keyhole) surgery. Your surgeon will decide which method to use based on the size and location of the ganglion and the potential complexity of the operation.

Why would I have an excision of a ganglion cyst?

If you have a ganglion that is causing pain or discomfort, or restricting movement, and affecting your quality of life, then they can be successfully treated by aspiration or excision.

What happens during an excision of a ganglion cyst?

Open surgery to remove a ganglion cyst involves making a medium-sized cut, around 5cm long, over the affected joint and removing the cyst. During arthroscopic surgery, several smaller incisions are made and the surgeon uses small instruments to look inside the joint and remove the cyst. Because arthroscopic surgery uses only a series of small cuts instead of one large opening in the skin, the technique minimises the impact of the operation itself, promotes healing and leads to a fuller, faster recovery.

Excision of a ganglion cyst may be carried out under a general anaesthetic (so you’ll be asleep) or a local anaesthetic (so you’ll stay awake but won’t feel anything). The operation usually takes less than an hour and you’ll usually go home on the same day.

What should I expect after an excision of a ganglion cyst?

Immediately after surgery we’ll help you manage any pain or discomfort with painkillers. We’ll discuss your aftercare and arrange any follow-up appointments with you before you leave hospital.

Depending which joint has been operated on, in the first few days following your surgery you may need help to get around and you may need to put an ice pack on the affected area to reduce swelling and minimise discomfort.

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Our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons

Baljinder Singh Dhinsa

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr Singh Dhinsa's specialties include hallux valgus surgery and management of foot and ankle conditions

Language(s): English, Punjabi

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Michael Dunning

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr Dunning's specialities include hallux valgus surgery, sports injuries of the foot and ankle and arthrodesis surgery.

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Language(s): English

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Kumar Reddy

Associate Specialist Surgeon

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Andrew Smith

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr Andrew Smith specialises in carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, hand and wrist arthritis and elbow issues.

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Crispin Southgate

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr Southgate's specialities include foot and ankle conditions - covering sports injuries and more.

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Hemant Thakral

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr Thakral's specialties include shoulder arthroscopic surgery, hand and elbow issues, plus complex joint replacements for arthritis and trauma.

Language(s): English

Location(s): Kent

Mr Hemant Thakral

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