Ganglion Excision from Wrists
If you have ever had a ganglion cyst develop close to the joints located in your wrist, fingers, or even on the sole of your foot, you know how painful this condition can be. This problem is caused by pressure exerted on surrounding nerves. While sometimes these cysts do not need to be removed, in more severe cases they do. Here is what you need to know about ganglion wrist excision or wrist surgery.
What Is Ganglion Excision from Wrists?
Most likely, you have heard of a ganglion cyst excision but may not have understood what it is. Simply put, this is a surgery for removing a sac or cyst filled with a jelly-like, colorless, sticky fluid or material. Although ganglion cysts are commonly found on the wrist, they can also form on fingers or the sole of the foot. While some ganglion cysts feel spongy, others feel firm.
What Are the Risk Factors for Ganglion Cyst Excision?
The diagnosis of a ganglion cyst entails a doctor examining your wrist and hand, along with asking you about your symptoms. Even though most diagnoses are straightforward, sometimes scans are necessary.
- It is not clear what causes ganglion cysts. However, one theory is that they are the result of trauma, causing a breakdown in the affected joint's tissue. As a result, small cysts form.
- Females are more prone to ganglion cysts than males.
- Seventy percent of ganglion cyst cases occur in adults who range in age from 20 to 40 years.
What to Expect During Ganglion Cyst Excision
Your doctor will discuss the details regarding preparing for the surgery of your ganglion cyst. Some necessary preparations may include:
- Getting medical screening tests before the surgery, such as blood tests, MRIs, X-rays, and others for determining cyst size and location
- Arranging for someone to give you a ride home
- Abstaining from food and water after midnight before your surgery day
- Signing a legal consent form permitting healthcare professionals to perform the surgery
- Talking with an anesthesiologist about if you have ever had an anesthesia issue since it is needed for numbing the surgery area.
Recovery Time for Ganglion Excision From Wrists
Usually, a ganglion excision procedure is an outpatient surgery. In other words, it can be performed at Treasure Valley Hospital by your surgeon, and then you can return home after being observed in the recovery room.
Expect to have some mild discomfort, tenderness, and swelling after your procedure. Your surgeon will have applied a bulky dressing to your wrist and forearm to protect your surgical site. You'll need to move your wrist and fingers as soon as possible following your procedure. After two weeks, your stitches will be removed. You'll probably be able to get back to your routine and activities in about two to six weeks following your surgery.
Why Choose Treasure Valley Hospital for Ganglion Cyst Excision?
Don't continue to suffer from a ganglion cyst. Treasure Valley Hospital is Idaho's #1 physician-owned hospital. We have some of the top surgeons in Idaho who are experienced and well versed in the latest medical/surgical techniques for ganglion cyst excision. Our goal is to provide high-quality, low-cost personalized care to every one of our patients. To get a better idea of what your wrist surgery will cost, use our cost calculator. To learn more about our wide range of services, contact us at Treasure Valley Hospital in Boise, Idaho.