Ganglion cysts are common lumps that often develop near joints or tendons. These fluid-filled sacs can cause discomfort or interfere with daily activities. When symptoms arise, removal may be considered.
Understanding Ganglion Cysts
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms near a joint or tendon sheath. They are common in the hand and wrist, though they can appear on ankles, feet, fingers, and the knee. The fluid inside is often thick and jelly-like. While the exact cause remains unknown, they may form due to irritation, trauma, or a weakness in the joint capsule.
These cysts vary in size, from pea-sized to golf ball-sized, and can change in volume. They may feel soft or firm, and smaller cysts might not be visible but can still cause symptoms. Despite their appearance, ganglion cysts are benign and do not pose a cancer risk.
When Removal is Recommended
Medical professionals recommend ganglion cyst removal when it causes bothersome symptoms or interferes with function. Pain is a common reason, especially if the cyst presses on nearby nerves or causes discomfort with movement. Other neurological symptoms, such as tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness, can also indicate the need for intervention.
A cyst may also impede joint function, making certain movements difficult or uncomfortable. For instance, a cyst on the foot could cause pain when walking or wearing shoes, while one on the wrist might affect gripping or fine motor skills. Cosmetic concerns can also be a valid reason for removal if the cyst is prominent. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and sometimes imaging like an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the cyst and rule out other conditions.
Approaches to Ganglion Removal
When a ganglion cyst requires intervention, different approaches are considered. One non-surgical method is aspiration, which involves using a needle to drain the fluid from the cyst. This procedure can offer immediate relief from pressure and pain, and sometimes a steroid medication is injected afterward. However, aspiration has a high recurrence rate, with studies reporting that the cyst can return in 60% to 95% of cases because the cyst’s “root” or connection to the joint or tendon sheath is not removed.
The surgical removal of a ganglion cyst is known as a ganglionectomy. This procedure involves excising the entire cyst along with its stalk, which is its connection to the joint capsule or tendon sheath. By removing this connection, ganglionectomy aims to reduce the likelihood of recurrence compared to aspiration. This surgery can be performed as an open procedure, involving a larger incision, or arthroscopically, using smaller incisions and a camera. Surgical excision generally has a lower recurrence rate, often ranging from 1% to 50% depending on the specific study and cyst location.
Life After Ganglion Removal
Following ganglion cyst removal, patients can expect a recovery period that varies based on the method used. After a surgical ganglionectomy, full recovery typically takes between two to six weeks, though it can extend up to eight weeks. During the initial phase, pain and swelling are common and can be managed with prescribed medications and by elevating the affected limb. A dressing or splint may be applied to protect the surgical site and limit movement, with stitches usually removed within one to two weeks.
Gradual return to normal activities is encouraged, often with gentle range-of-motion exercises to restore mobility. While surgical removal aims to prevent recurrence, there is still a small chance the cyst may return, though it is less common than after aspiration. Potential minor complications include bruising, temporary stiffness, or, rarely, nerve irritation or infection. Patients are advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to monitor healing and address any concerns.