Ganglion cysts are lumps that usually appear in the wrist area. These noncancerous lumps are filled with fluid and develop from joint or tendon irritation. Ganglion cysts do not always cause symptoms, but when they do, they can swell and cause pain and discomfort. Anyone can develop ganglion cysts, but this problem is more common in women.
If you are dealing with symptoms of a ganglion cyst, an orthopedic hand doctor may recommend surgical excision. If your ganglion cysts are symptomatic and limit hand function or cause numbness and tingling, it is a sign that it could be pressing against a nerve and can be successfully treated with surgery.
In this article, we will discuss surgery for ganglion cysts, how it is performed, and where you can go in Miami Lakes or Plantation, FL for ganglion cyst treatment.
Surgical Procedure to Remove Ganglion Cysts
The operation to remove a ganglion cyst usually takes less than an hour to complete. Here’s details about the procedure and aftercare.
#1 Preparing for Ganglion Cyst Surgery
Before the surgical procedure, patients will typically undergo a thorough examination by their orthopedic doctor. This may include imaging tests such as ultrasound or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to confirm the diagnosis and assess the size and location of the ganglion cyst.
Additionally, patients will also receive pre-operative instructions, which may include fasting before the procedure and temporarily discontinuing certain medications.
#2 Ganglion Cyst Surgical Excision
During the surgical excision of a ganglion cyst, the orthopedic surgeon usually numbs the affected area. Then, the doctor proceeds to make an incision over the cyst, carefully removing the cyst along with the root of the cyst which connects to the joint or tendon. This process completely eliminates the cyst and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
#3 Closure and Recovery
Following the removal of the cyst, the incision site is closed with sutures or adhesive strips. The patient is then monitored in a recovery area before being discharged with specific post-operative care instructions.
Aftercare and Recovery
After surgical excision of a ganglion cyst, the patient’s hand will be in a bandage or splint, which should be kept on for a few days. Most patients go home on the same day as the surgery. Recovery can take anywhere from two to six weeks following surgery.
#1 Immediate Postoperative Period
After ganglion cyst surgery, the patient may experience mild discomfort and swelling around the surgical site, which is completely normal.
Follow the post-operative care guidelines provided by the orthopedic care team, which includes:
- Resting the hand and keeping use to a minimum
- Keeping the hand elevated to minimize swelling
- Making sure the surgical site is clean and dry
- Taking prescribed pain medications as directed
- Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting
#2 Rehabilitation and Follow-Up
Rehabilitation following ganglion cyst excision may involve hand therapy and other exercises to restore strength and mobility to the joints. A physical therapist can guide the patient through exercises, which will help gradually restore function to the hand and return the patient to normal activities.
The patient will continue to have scheduled follow-up appointments with the orthopedic hand surgeon to monitor the hand’s healing process and ensure that no complications develop. During one of the visits, the orthopedic surgeon may remove any non-absorbable sutures and assess the outcome of the surgery.
#3 Potential Complications and Signs of Concern
While ganglion cyst excision is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure.
Patients should observe for signs of infection or other surgical complications, such as:
- Persistent pain
- Increased redness
- Warmth
- Excessive swelling
- Drainage from the incision site
- A high fever
- Loss of sensation
The patient should report any developing sign of complication to their orthopedic care team.
Top Orthopedic Hand Surgeon in Miami Lakes or Plantation, FL
Dr. Tosca Kinchelow at The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center offers the most advanced treatments for hand and shoulder conditions. If Dr. Kinchelow determines the issue to be ganglion cysts, she will discuss your treatment options with you and any concerns you may have about the treatment plan.
Our highly skilled team at The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center strives for the best outcomes for our patients, which is why we create individualized programs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kinchelow, call our office today at (954) 635-5300 or use our online form to schedule your visit.
Our warm and friendly staff in our Miami Lakes or Plantation orthopedic offices looks forward to serving you.
