Ganglion excision is a surgical procedure to remove a ganglion cyst — a fluid-filled swelling that commonly arises from a joint or tendon sheath in the wrist or hand.
An incision is made over the ganglion. The cyst is carefully dissected from the surrounding tissues, and a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath from which it arises is removed to reduce the risk of recurrence. The wound is closed with stitches and a dressing applied. The procedure takes approximately 20–30 minutes.
Surgery is considered when a ganglion causes persistent pain, interferes with function, compresses nearby nerves, or is cosmetically unacceptable, and has not responded to observation or aspiration (draining with a needle).
Many ganglions are harmless and can be left alone. Aspiration (draining the cyst with a needle) is a simple option but has a recurrence rate of around 50%. Ganglions may also resolve spontaneously.
This is a day-case procedure. Eat and drink normally. Remove watches and jewellery from the affected wrist.
Surgical excision removes the cyst and addresses the underlying connection to the joint or tendon sheath. Recurrence after surgery is approximately 10–20%, which is lower than after aspiration.
The ganglion may return in approximately 10–20% of cases.
The incision site may be tender for several weeks.
Temporary wrist stiffness improving with exercises.
Sensory nerves near the ganglion may be damaged, causing numbness.
Wound infection.
Damage to nearby structures, particularly with volar (palm-side) ganglions.
Can be performed under local, regional, or general anaesthesia depending on the location and size of the ganglion.
A dressing is worn for a few days. Gentle wrist and finger movements are encouraged immediately. Stitches are removed at 10–14 days. Most patients return to normal activities within two to four weeks.
Suture removal at 10–14 days. Further follow-up only if needed.
Yes, there is approximately a 10–20% chance of recurrence after surgical excision.
No. Ganglions are benign and not harmful. Surgery is only necessary if the cyst causes pain or functional problems.