Ganglion Cyst Treatment in Pasadena
Men and women of all ages suffer from the common problem of ganglion cysts. Although not dangerous or life-threatening, they can become a painful nuisance and prevent or curtail many normal activities. These cysts are fluid-filled sacs that arise from the joint lining and can gradually enlarge, encroaching on other structures and causing deformity and pain. Also known as mucoid or mucous cysts, they are often associated with arthritis in the fingertips, giving the fingertips a crooked appearance and causing constant discomfort. In the wrist, they can grow quite large and cause stiffness and instability, especially during sports or playing musical instruments.
Ganglion Cyst Surgery Treatment
The treatment for ganglion cysts is straightforward, but if the stalk arising from the joint space is not addressed, ganglion cysts usually do not respond well to needle aspiration — the cyst simply recurs, filling up with joint fluid again over time. Surgery is the best way to completely remove these cysts and prevent them from returning. Because these ganglions form in and around joint spaces close to critical structures of the hand, we recommend seeking treatment from a board-certified surgeon in surgery of the hand.
Board-certified Dr. Shankar Lakshman completed an orthopedic hand surgery fellowship and has extensive experience removing these cysts, successfully treating professional piano players, cellists, and other musicians, as well as teenage softball and football players, cheerleaders, tennis players, and instructors. He takes the time to thoroughly explain the procedure and ease your concerns. After surgery, he personally provides follow-up care and does not outsource the job to a lesser-trained assistant — he even changes post-operative dressings and removes his own sutures. We believe this continuity of care ensures the best results for our patients.
If you have painful ganglions or mucoid cysts, come to the experts for your hand care. You may also want to learn more about our treatment for hand arthritis and trigger finger, or return to our Hand Surgery in Pasadena page to review all of our services.
Ganglion Cyst FAQs
What is a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that arises from a joint lining, often near the wrist or fingers, and can gradually enlarge and cause pain or deformity.
Are ganglion cysts dangerous?
Ganglion cysts are not dangerous or life-threatening, but they can become a painful nuisance and limit normal hand activities.
Can a ganglion cyst be treated without surgery?
Needle aspiration is sometimes tried, but if the stalk arising from the joint space is not addressed, the cyst usually recurs. Surgery offers a more complete, lasting solution.
Is ganglion cyst removal a complex procedure?
Because ganglions form near critical structures of the hand, removal should be performed by a board-certified hand surgeon with specialized training.
Will a ganglion cyst come back after surgery?
Surgically removing the cyst along with its stalk is the most effective way to prevent it from recurring.
Who provides my follow-up care after ganglion cyst surgery?
Dr. Lakshman personally provides all follow-up care, including dressing changes and suture removal.
How do I schedule a consultation for a ganglion cyst?
Call (626) 683-9080 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lakshman.