Ganglion
After the operation
The surgeon will stitch up the wound and a bandage will be placed over the area. This helps keep the area clean,reducing the risk of infection, as well as keeping it safe from any accidental bumps. The wound isn't usually painful, but you'll be given painkillers to take if you feel any discomfort after the operation.
If the cyst was removed from your wrist or hand, you may need to wear a sling for the first few days. This helps keep your arm safe from any accidental knocks, and may help reduce swelling and discomfort. Move your fingers regularly to help keep the joints flexible.
Surgery to remove a ganglion cyst leaves a scar, which can occasionally be thick and red. For some people, the skin around the scar remains numb after the operation.
You'll usuallyexperience some bruising in the area after your operation, but this should fade quickly. There's also a small possibility oftemporary stiffness, swelling or pain afterwards. This may be caused by a minor infection that can be treated using antibiotics. Lasting pain or stiffness may need further treatment with physiotherapy.
How much time you need to take off work after surgery to remove a ganglion cyst largely depends on where the ganglion is and your job. If your job involves manual labour, you may need to take time off. You can usually start driving again once it feels safe.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops near a joint or tendon. The cyst can range from the size of a pea to the size of a golf ball.
Treatment options
Treatment is usually only recommended if the cyst causes pain or affects the range of movement in a joint.The two main treatment options for a ganglion cyst are: draining fluid out of the cyst with a
Availability on the NHS
Mostclinical commissioninggroups (CCGs)don't fund treatment for ganglion cysts unless they cause significant pain or disrupt daily activities.If you want to have a cyst removed for cosmetic reasons, y
Aspiration
Aspiration is usually carried out in the outpatient department of your local hospital or GP surgery. Your doctor will remove as much of the contents of the ganglion as possible with a needle and syrin
Surgery
There are two ways surgery can be used to remove a ganglion cyst: open surgery where the surgeon makes a medium-sized cut, usually about 5cm (2 inches) long,over the site of the affected joint or tend
After the operation
The surgeon will stitch up the wound and a bandage will be placed over the area. This helps keep the area clean,reducing the risk of infection, as well as keeping it safe from any accidental bumps. Th
Complications
Having a ganglion cyst removed is a minor procedure, so complications are rare and seldom serious. However, a small number of people experience permanent stiffness and pain after surgery.If you have t
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