Are There Any Alternatives to Ganglion Surgery?

A ganglion will often settle after a year or two. If your ganglion is not causing much trouble it is best to leave it alone.

The fluid can be taken out of the ganglion using a needle. This improves any discomfort for a while. Your doctor may also inject the ganglion with a steroid (cortisone). These treatments may help for a short time.

What Does the Ganglion Operation Involve?

Various anaesthetic techniques are possible. The operation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Your surgeon will make a cut over the ganglion and separate the ganglion from the nearby tendons, nerves and blood vessels. They will remove the ganglion.

What Complications Can Happen?

General Complications

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection of the surgical site (wound)
• Unsightly scarring

Specific Complications

• Damage to an artery
• Damage to small nerves
• Continued aching where the ganglion was
• Severe pain, stiffness and loss of use of your limb (complex regional pain syndrome)

A ganglion is not serious. If it is causing trouble, your surgeon can remove it.

If you would like to receive more information on Ganglion Removal Surgery at New Victoria Hospital, please call us on 020 8949 9020 or:

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