Treating And Managing Ganglion Cysts

Surgical Removal

Sometimes a ganglion cyst recurs after a physician aspirates the fluid one or more times. The cyst may grow in size and cause pain that cannot be managed well with medication, cause tingling or numbness, or restrict movement of the involved joint, which can be particularly troublesome when the dominant hand is involved.

A decision may be made to perform surgical removal with a procedure called ganglionectomy (excision of ganglion cyst). This is considered elective surgery and can be done in an outpatient setting. The patient can go home after a short time in observation. The surgical removal is often done arthroscopically, using a small incision through which the surgeon can insert an arthroscope. This tiny camera helps the surgeon visualize the cyst and remove it. The surgeon removes the cyst and a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath involved (the root of the ganglion). The excisions can be done with a larger incision which allows for visualization of the cyst and surrounding structures. Arthroscopic surgery has the advantages of shorter recovery time and a smaller remaining scar. Patients can return to normal activities in approximately two to six weeks after the operation.

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Pain Relief Medication

When a ganglion cyst puts pressure on a nerve, pain may become an ongoing problem. This pain may be characterized as a chronic, persistent ache that may be exacerbated by repetitive motion or trauma. In addition to temporary splinting to reduce the discomfort, pain relief medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen may be used as directed by a doctor. A ganglion cyst on the outer part of the wrist often causes more pain than one in the inner wrist area due to the trauma of constantly flexing the wrist joint in ways that put stress on the outer hand area. If the pain becomes a long-term problem without resolution, the cyst may need to be aspirated to relieve pressure on the nerve. As a last resort, doctors may recommend surgery to avoid long-term medication usage.

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