A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that can develop almost anywhere in the body or under the skin. These sacs are typically filled with fluid, air, or other materials. Many cysts are benign and may resolve on their own, but cyst aspiration can address them. This procedure should only be performed by a qualified medical professional in a clinical setting due to potential health risks if attempted at home.
When Aspiration is Recommended
Cyst aspiration is recommended for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. For diagnosis, aspiration helps determine if a cyst is benign or has concerning features, especially if it appears unusual on imaging. The collected fluid can be sent to a laboratory for analysis, helping rule out serious conditions like tumors or infections. If the fluid is bloody or unusually thick, further biopsy may be indicated.
Therapeutically, aspiration can relieve symptoms such as pain, pressure, or discomfort caused by the cyst. This is relevant for large or symptomatic cysts that interfere with daily life or cause cosmetic concerns. Common types of cysts considered for aspiration include ganglion cysts (often near joints like the wrist or knee), breast cysts, kidney cysts, and ovarian cysts, especially if symptomatic or requiring further evaluation.
The Aspiration Procedure
Cyst aspiration is typically performed in a clinic or radiology center, lasting 15 to 30 minutes. The overall appointment may be longer for preparation and post-procedure care. Before the procedure, patients may be asked to stop certain medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for several days. The skin over the cyst is thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
A local anesthetic, often lidocaine, is injected into the area around the cyst to numb it, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Once numb, a radiologist or other trained medical professional uses a fine needle to access the cyst. For deeper or smaller cysts, ultrasound imaging is frequently used to precisely guide the needle into the fluid-filled sac, ensuring accurate placement and avoiding surrounding tissues.
Once the needle is inside the cyst, a syringe is attached to withdraw the fluid, causing the cyst to collapse. Patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort during fluid withdrawal, even with the local anesthetic. The collected fluid may be discarded if clear and benign, or sent to a pathology lab for further analysis, especially if discolored or bloody. After fluid removal, the needle is withdrawn, and pressure is applied to the site to help prevent bleeding.
Post-Procedure Care and What to Expect
After cyst aspiration, mild soreness, bruising, or slight swelling at the site are common. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen are usually sufficient to manage discomfort. A bandage or dressing will be applied to the puncture site, which should be kept clean and dry for 24 to 48 hours.
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or repetitive movements involving the treated area for 24 to 48 hours to minimize bleeding or increased bruising. Most individuals can resume normal daily activities within a few hours to a day. It is important to monitor the aspiration site for any signs of complications, such as:
- Worsening swelling
- Continued bleeding
- Excessive pain that does not respond to medication
- Redness
- Warmth
- Pus
- A fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius)
These symptoms could indicate an infection and warrant immediate contact with a healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled, especially if the cyst was large, if the fluid required analysis, or if there is concern about recurrence.