Hand Ganglion Cyst Surgery
Overview
If you have a wrist ganglion cyst you may have a noticeable bump on your wrist. This bump is oftentimes not painful however sometimes it can press on a nerve nearby. If your ganglion cyst is painful you may also experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness. Hand ganglion cyst surgery can alleviate your symptoms.
How to Prepare for Hand Ganglion Cyst Surgery
You won’t be able to eat the day you have surgery. You should be able to continue drinking water as normal. Just avoid drinking other beverages, like soda, juice, or milk. We may also ask that you quit taking certain medications like aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs a few days before surgery. Make sure we know what medications you take regularly.
Procedure
During this surgery, you will be given a local or regional anesthetic which will numb your hand while you stay awake. If you’re anxious you may be given medicine to help you relax. We will create a small incision on the bump and remove the cyst and stalk which is attached to the joint or tendon. We will use stitches to close the opening and wrap your wrists to protect the incision site. You will be able to return home after your surgery.
Recovery
Keep the wound dressed for 1 to 2 weeks until you can return to get your stitches out. You may have a scar after surgery however it will get less noticeable over time.
Efficacy
There will be a more cosmetic look for your wrist and experience less pain after the removal of the cyst.
Complications
Possible complications include infection, blood loss, and nerve damage as with any surgery.
Outlook
Ganglion cysts often occur in women between the ages of 20 and 40 years old, however, they can develop in anyone. Also, people who have injured joints or tendons are at an increased chance of getting ganglion cysts. After hand ganglion cyst surgery, there is a chance the cyst can return.