Ganglion Cyst Removal Surgery

A Ganglionectomy is the most effective treatment to remove a Ganglion Cyst from the hand, wrist, foot, ankle or other part of the body. While aspiration of a cyst removes the content of a cyst and provide pain relief, a Ganglionectomy is done to remove the entire cyst, including the pedicle. A person who is experiencing pain, restricted motion in the affected area or cyst recurrence may choose to have a Ganlion Cyst removed surgically. Removing the entire cyst reduces the chance that a cyst will grow back. Ganglion Cyst Removal Surgery is considered to low risk and complications are uncommon. It may be done as an outpatient procedure.

A Ganglionectomy can be done as an open surgery or as minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure. During an open cyst excision, an orthopedic surgeon will make an incision over the top of the cyst and remove the cyst and its pedicle (root) from the tendon sheath or joint. During an arthroscopic ganglion excision, a smaller incision is made. A small camera (endoscope) and specialized surgical tools are inserted into the incision to provide visual guidance. A surgeon will then cleanse the area and remove the content and parts of the cyst.

Swelling, tenderness and pain are commonly experienced after surgery as the area heals. Recovery time from a Ganglionectomy usually takes at least a couple of weeks and as many as six. Patients who have this procedure will need to take care of the area to reduce the risk of an infection.