Effective Surgical and Non-Surgical Solutions for Ganglion Cysts

The Center for Hand Surgery at University Hospitals Department of Plastic Surgery in Cleveland, Ohio, provides safe and effective ganglion cyst treatment and surgery to reduce pain and improve function.

Common, Benign Painful Tumors

Ganglion cysts are soft, fluid-filled cysts that develop on the front or back of the hand for no apparent reason. These common, benign (non-cancerous), soft-tissue tumors of the hand and wrist can cause wrist pain, aching and weakness.

Patient History and Examination

Consultation with a doctor at the Center for Hand Surgery is an important part of the treatment process for a ganglion cyst. The surgeon will do a physical examination and assess the cyst. X-rays of the hand and possibly an MRI may be done.

Ganglion Cyst Treatment

When the ganglion cyst begins to grow and interferes with the functionality of the hand, treatment may include the following:

• Rest
• Splinting
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Aspiration
• Cortisone injections
• Surgery

Ganglion Cyst Surgery

Ganglion cyst surgery may be necessary if other self-care options fail. The ganglion cyst surgery is performed through an incision in the skin. The surgeon’s goal is to resect or remove the cyst.

At the Center for Hand Surgery, ganglion cyst surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. The patient should be able to go home the same day.

Side Effects and Recovery

Recovery after a ganglion cyst surgery should take several weeks. While this surgery usually has excellent results, patients should watch for bleeding, infection and scarring.