Are you having surgery to remove a ganglion cyst and want to know what’s involved? Ganglion cysts are a common problem. If you’re dealing with this health condition and awaiting surgery, it’s important to understand ganglion cyst post-surgery care.
You want to prepare for your surgery and proper healing after cyst removal.
Here’s a guide to recovery time from ganglion cyst surgery.
What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion or ganglion cyst is an area or bulge filled with synovial fluid, a jelly-like joint fluid contained within a sac or envelope. Although there’s no known cause for the condition, ganglions tend to develop from joints that experience repetitive strain. The joint capsule usually has a weakness or stretches out, similar to blowing a bubble with bubble gum, except these have fluid contained within it.
The condition can cause pain and discomfort, especially if the ganglions press on a nerve or it is located at a joint, then a patient may experience frequent joint pain with movement. In some instances, people who have osteoarthritis are susceptible to developing cysts which affect the joints. Though most tend to present in patients without an arthritic joint.
In some cases, ganglion cysts can go away on their own without medical intervention. They can also recur without a known cause.
Diagnosis of a Ganglion Cyst
A doctor can diagnose a ganglion cyst by physically examining the area and observing how the cyst looks and feels. They will consider where the cyst is located and if the cyst fluid is clear.
They may need to do further testing to confirm a ganglion cyst. These methods are unusually effective and low-cost to the patient. They include:
X-Ray
An X-ray does not identify a ganglion cyst but can be helpful in other ways. It is used to measure bone density and can rule out other conditions, including arthritis or bone tumors. Sometimes you can see the shadow of the cyst on an xray.
MRI Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a scan that can view the soft tissue of the body. It can help diagnose ganglion cysts and differentiate these cysts from other soft tissue conditions that can occur. Especially if you have tiny cysts which are referred to as occult ganglion cysts or cysts that are not visible seen or felt upon examination.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound may be helpful. It may be used as an alternative to an X-ray or MRI to get a closer look at the area of concern. Ultrasounds can help localize the ganglion, and assist in an aspiration of the cyst.
Ganglion Cyst Treatment
Doctors treat ganglion cysts in a variety of ways. Some patients may want to try the nonsurgical option if they have a mild case. Others want surgical removal if they are experiencing long-term discomfort or pain. Your doctor can assess your condition and make treatment recommendations based on your needs.
Ganglion cyst finger treatment can be an option for patients who must use their hands for work and experience ongoing pain that prevents them from performing their jobs efficiently.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Although ganglion cysts aren’t typically a threat to your health, they can be problematic and cause aching and discomfort. This can affect your well-being and impact your day-to-day life.
Some people feel embarrassed by the way the cysts look, and this is one of the top reasons patients seek treatment. The doctor may recommend nonsurgical treatment options, including:
Watchful Waiting
Ganglion cysts can subside or disappear over time. If the cyst doesn’t cure discomfort or pain, the doctor may suggest observing it to see whether it continues to grow or dissipates completely.
Wearing a Splint
A splint will help to keep your wrist or finger straight and prevent movement if the cyst is painful. This is typically a temporary solution.
If the cyst begins to dissipate while you wear the splint, your doctor may suggest removing it and encourage normal mobility. Wearing a splint is sometimes necessary for healing after cyst removal.
Using Anti-Inflammatory Medication for Pain
Some people do not experience pain with this condition. For mild pain or discomfort, your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication on a trial basis.
Aspiration
Aspiration refers to the process of removing fluid from the body. This may be performed with a syringe or needle and doesn’t require surgical intervention. A local anesthetic may be administered to numb the area surrounding the cyst.
The fluid can be very thick and difficult to aspirate. Although the doctor can drain the fluid, the cyst may recur becaue cyst structure or sac remains in place and usually fills up quickly again.
Home Remedies or Alternative Treatments
If your ganglion cysts are on your ankles or feet, there are things you can do to minimize the discomfort. Try loosening your shoestrings or wearing slip-on shoes to minimize your pain.
Beware of drug companies that advertise products that dissolve these types of cysts. These drugs aren’t FDA-certified, so talk to your doctor before starting any new medications.
Surgical Treatment
In some cases, surgery is the best option for removing cysts. The reasons for choosing surgery vary.
Some patients may be worried about the risk of cancer. Others are looking for a solution to reduce pain. Many patients opt for surgery for cosmetic reasons.
Surgery to Remove a Ganglion Cyst From the Wrist
Doctors typically perform cyst removal surgery on an outpatient basis. The surgeon may use traditional or arthroscopy surgical techniques. Arthroscopic surgery involves making a small incision and guiding a tiny camera into the joint.
The doctor uses small incisions to insert the instruments needed to perform the procedure. Arthroscopy is less invasive and allows the surgeon to remove ganglion cysts with smaller incisions and minimal scarring.
The level of surgical difficulty depends on the cyst location on the wrist. These types of cysts appear on the dorsal or back of the wrist.
A smaller percentage appear near the palm on the underside of the wrist. These are solar cysts and are more difficult to remove.
Dorsal Cysts
A dorsal cyst on the back of the wrist is removed using a crosswise cut. The surgeon works carefully to avoid damage to the ligaments of the wrist.
They try to remove the entire cyst, including the seal-like part. This helps prevent the cyst from recurring.
Volar Cysts
Cysts located on the underside of the wrist can be more difficult to remove. The surgeon must be careful to avoid the radial artery and nerves on the inside of the wrist. This location can make it difficult to remove the cyst completely, increasing the chances of it coming back.
What Are the Risks of Ganglion Cyst Surgery?
There is always the chance of a cyst returning after surgery, usually at about 10-15% chance. Some people may have pain that doesn’t dissipate completely after surgery. In rare cases, patients could lose some grip strength or mobility in their joints.
Possible negative surgery outcomes include:
- An infection in or around the surgical site
- A thickened scar
- Developing a neuroma
- Damage to the radial artery
- Damage to the median nerve
If you want to know more about whether ganglion cyst surgery is right for you, talk to your doctor. They can refer you to a hand surgeon who is knowledgeable about these conditions and the best available treatments.
You shouldn’t attempt to cut or drain a cyst yourself with a needle or sharp instrument. This puts you at risk of infection or recurrence of the cyst.
There’s a common misconception that hitting a cyst can make them shrink, pop, or go away. This type of at-home treatment puts you at risk for injury, infection, or recurrence of the cyst.
Recovery Process for Ganglion Cyst
During surgery, your doctor may make an incision in the skin covering the ganglion. They will remove the cyst, fluid, and connecting tissue from the area and close it with a stitch.
Your doctor may want you to wear a wrist splint to restrict movement until the area heals. They will let you know when you can move the area and get back to your normal routine.
Every case is different, so listen to your doctor’s post-surgery tips for a ganglion cyst. Your doctor will give you an idea of when you can resume your daily activities,
General Steps for Recovery From Ganglion Cyst Removal Surgery
In most cases, you will go home the same day you have your procedure. Complete healing typically takes two to six weeks following surgery. There is always a chance your cyst could recur, but the recurrence rate is low following the initial surgery.
Diet
After surgery, you can eat a normal diet when you’re feeling up to it. If you experience an upset stomach, choose bland low-fat foods such as broiled chicken, plain rice, yogurt, and toast.
Medicines
Follow your doctor’s orders on restarting your medications. You should receive instructions for taking any new medications. If you take blood thinners, ask your doctor before restarting your medication.
Read the instruction label on your medications and follow the instructions. If your doctor gave you a prescription for pain medicine, take it as prescribed. If you didn’t get a prescription and are experiencing pain, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medication.
Incision Care
Leave the bandage on the incision area until your doctor says it’s okay to remove it. This is typically two to three days after the procedure. After removing the bandage, wash the area with clean water and pat dry.
Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on the surgical site. This can burn and slow healing.
Cover the area with gauze if it rubs against your clothing or oozes fluid. Change the bandage daily.
Contact your doctor if you experience any troubling symptoms such as fever, chills, or bleeding. If you are wearing a splint, keep wearing it until your doctor recommends taking it off. Follow your splint care instructions carefully and avoid putting it on too tight.
Exercise
Do not try to rush exercise following your surgery. Listen to your doctor’s advice on how and when to move the area. Depending on the location of your cyst, you may need physical therapy to help you restore normal mobility.
Therapy can help you regain strength, grip, and movement in your hand and wrist. For best results, follow the advice of your doctor or physical therapist for resuming normal activities and exercise.
Follow-up Care
Ganglion cyst post-surgery care is an essential part of your treatment. Attend all of your post-op appointments and follow your doctor’s advice. Call your doctor if you’re experiencing any unusual pain or other symptoms.
It’s always a good idea to know your test results and keep a current list of medications you’re taking. If you experience swelling, try using a cold pack on the area for 10 to 15 minutes every one to two hours for up to three days.
You should place a piece of cloth between the ice and your skin for comfort. Prop up your arm or the surgical area when you sit or lie down for two to three days after surgery. Elevate the area above heart level to reduce swelling.
Follow your doctor’s advice for the recovery process for a ganglion cyst.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
The chance of needing emergency assistance after ganglion cyst removal is low. With any surgery, there are risks, however. Seek medical attention if:
- You pass out
- You experience chest pain or are short of breath
- You cough up blood
- You have severe or persistent pain
- Your incision opens or you lose stitches
- You experience blood loss that soaks through the bandage
- You have increased swelling, redness, or warmth
- You notice red streaks around the surgical site
- You notice pus draining from the incision
Most surgeries are successful in removing ganglion cysts. This is generally an outpatient procedure, and you may be able to go home the day of your surgery. You can expect some mild pain and swelling at the incision site for a few days.
You should feel much better within the first few days after surgery. You can expect a full recovery in two to six weeks after surgery.
Recovery Time From Ganglion Cyst Surgery
If you’ve been diagnosed with this condition, you probably have many questions about recovery time from ganglion cyst surgery. The good news is that it’s a common problem, and there are skilled hand doctors ready to help you.
At the Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas, we offer the best in hand, wrist, and elbow care through our expert minimally invasive techniques. From shoulder to fingertip, our hand surgeons provide the finest in comprehensive and compassionate care.
If you need an experienced hand surgeon in Houston, reach out today to schedule an appointment.
