Ganglion Excision

This page will give you information about Ganglion removal surgery. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

The Procedure

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)

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr Stephen Milner DM FRCS (Tr. & Orth.)

The operation and treatment information on this website is published under license by New Victoria Hospital from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright laws. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any of the information. The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.