A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that can form in almost any part of the body, containing fluid, air, or other materials. These growths are typically noncancerous and vary significantly in size. While many cysts do not require treatment, drainage is a common procedure for certain types. It is important to understand that not all cysts are suitable for drainage, and the approach to treatment depends on the cyst’s type, size, location, and the presence of symptoms. This article provides general information about cyst drainage and should not replace professional medical advice.
Types of Cysts That Can Be Drained
Several common types of cysts are frequently candidates for drainage. Sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermoid inclusion cysts, are subcutaneous lumps filled with a thick, cheesy material called keratin. They often occur on the face, neck, trunk, and scalp. When these cysts become infected, painful, or rupture, drainage is often the initial treatment.
Pilonidal cysts form in the crease of the buttocks, often containing hair and skin debris. If infected, they can become a painful abscess requiring drainage. Bartholin’s cysts, located near the vaginal opening, can also become infected and form an abscess, causing significant pain and swelling. Drainage is indicated for symptomatic Bartholin cysts. Similarly, abscesses, which are collections of pus often resulting from bacterial infection, require drainage to resolve the infection and relieve pain.
Cysts Not Typically Drained
Ovarian cysts, which form on or within the ovaries, are generally managed through observation, medication, or surgical removal, but not typically by simple drainage. Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own. Similarly, kidney cysts, often discovered incidentally, are usually monitored unless they grow very large, cause symptoms, or are complex, in which case they might require different interventions.
Breast cysts are common, fluid-filled sacs within the breast tissue. While some painful breast cysts may be aspirated with a needle to remove fluid for symptom relief or diagnosis, this is more of an aspiration than a typical incision and drainage procedure. Ganglion cysts, which are fluid-filled lumps often found near joints or tendons in the hands, wrists, ankles, or feet, frequently resolve spontaneously. If symptomatic, they may be aspirated or surgically removed. Baker’s cysts, or popliteal cysts, develop behind the knee and are typically managed conservatively with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, or by addressing the underlying knee issue.
Understanding the Drainage Procedure
Cyst drainage is generally an outpatient procedure performed by a healthcare professional, often in a clinic or office setting. The process usually begins with the administration of a local anesthetic around the cyst to numb the area. Once the area is numb, a small incision is made over the cyst, typically using a scalpel or needle.
The contents of the cyst, which can include fluid, pus, or other accumulated material, are then gently expressed or drained through this incision. For some cysts, particularly infected ones, the healthcare provider may sweep the cavity with a hemostat or forceps to break up any internal compartments and ensure thorough drainage. After the cyst is drained, the cavity may be cleaned. In some cases, a sterile packing strip might be placed inside the drained cavity to help absorb any remaining fluid and promote continued drainage, preventing the incision from closing too quickly. This packing is typically removed after a day or two.
What to Expect After Drainage
Following a cyst drainage procedure, proper aftercare is important for healing and minimizing complications. Patients will typically receive instructions on wound care, which often involves keeping the area clean and dry. Dressings may need to be changed regularly, and sometimes a packing material placed in the wound will require removal by a healthcare professional within a day or two. Pain management usually involves over-the-counter pain relievers, though stronger medication may be prescribed depending on the extent of the procedure.
Patients should monitor the drained site for signs of potential complications, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, persistent pain, fever, or the presence of pus with an unpleasant odor. The cyst sac or lining is often not fully removed during drainage, especially for sebaceous cysts, which means there is a possibility of recurrence. Follow-up care with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure proper healing, address any concerns, and discuss options for preventing future recurrences, which may include surgical removal of the entire cyst capsule at a later date.