Ganglion Cyst Removal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

What you need to know about ganglion cyst removal:

Ganglion cyst removal is surgery to remove a small fluid-filled sac that usually occurs in the hand, wrist, foot, or ankle.

How to prepare for ganglion cyst removal:

Your surgeon will talk to you about how to prepare for surgery. Your surgeon may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your removal. Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.
Tell your surgeon about all medicines you currently take. Your surgeon will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for surgery, and when to stop. Your surgeon will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. Tell your surgeon if you had an allergic reaction to any medicine or anesthesia.
You may need tests such as an x-ray, ultrasound, or MRI to check the size and location of the ganglion cyst. Your surgeon will tell you when to get these tests. Contrast liquid may be used to help the cyst show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the provider if you have any metal in or on your body.

What will happen during ganglion cyst removal:

You may be given local anesthesia to numb the surgery area. With local anesthesia, you may still feel pressure or pushing during surgery, but you should not feel pain.
Your surgeon will make 1 or more incisions near the cyst. The surgeon will use small tools to remove the cyst. An endoscope (scope with a camera) may be used to help your surgeon see the cyst.
Your incision may be closed with stitches, or medical glue. Your incision will be covered with a bandage.

What to expect after ganglion cyst removal:

You will be taken to a room to rest until you are fully awake. Healthcare providers will monitor you closely for any problems. Do not get out of bed until your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Risks of ganglion cyst removal:

Your ganglion cyst may come back after treatment. Your scar could be painful. You may bleed too much or get an infection. You may have damage to your nerves or tendons that could lead to numbness or weakness.

Seek care immediately if:

You cannot move your arm, hand, leg, or foot.
Blood soaks through your bandage.

Call your doctor or specialist if:

You have a fever.
Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
You have numbness or tingling in your arm, hand, leg, or foot.
You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Care for the surgery area as directed:

Keep your wound area clean and dry. Ask your surgeon when you can bathe.
Check for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling.
Place ice on your wound for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you place it on your skin. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.

Self-care:

Ask about activities. You may be able to do light activities and light lifting. Ask your surgeon when you can return to work.
Go to hand therapy, if needed. A hand therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
Wear a splint as directed to support and protect the joint that has the cyst. This will limit movement and help your cyst get smaller.

Follow up with your doctor or specialist as directed:

You may need to return to have your wound area checked. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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