Ganglion Cyst Surgery

A ganglion cyst at the wrist is removed during a surgical procedure called excision.

Surgery involves removing the cyst as well as part of the involved joint capsule or tendon sheath, which is considered the root of the ganglion. Even after excision, there is a small chance the ganglion will return.

Excision is typically an outpatient procedure and patients are able to go home after a period of observation in the recovery area. There may be some tenderness, discomfort, and swelling after surgery.

Normal activities usually may be resumed 2 to 6 weeks after surgery.