A ganglion is a benign fluid-filled swelling arising from a joint or tendon sheath, most often on the back or palm side of the wrist, on the fingers or on the foot. Excision removes the cyst together with its stalk down to the joint capsule, giving a lower recurrence rate than needle aspiration. Ganglions are harmless and often observed; surgery is recommended when they are persistently painful, compress nerves or are cosmetically bothersome.
Duration
30 – 60 min
Recovery
1 – 2 weeks
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia or regional block or general anaesthesia
Setting
Day surgery
Sutures removed at 10–14 days; wrist splint for 2 weeks; light use of the hand from week 1; resume full activities at 3–4 weeks.
Resolution of the lump and associated pain, weakness or restricted movement.
Common Questions
Book a consultation with Dr Ravin Patel to discuss your goals and find out if this procedure is right for you.