Ganglion excision is a common outpatient procedure where Dr Singh removes a fluid-filled sac that typically grows near the joints of your wrist or hand. In the case of wrist ganglions, they are typically attached to the wrist joint capsule and are often visible as a lump. However, smaller ganglions can also exist beneath the skin. While many ganglions do not cause any symptoms, they can produce discomfort, tingling, and muscle weakness if they press on the nerves passing through the joint. Although wrist ganglions are the most common, ganglions have been observed in almost every joint in the hand and wrist.
The Surgical Procedure
The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local or regional anaesthesia. To effectively remove the cyst, Dr Singh typically removes the stalk connecting the cyst to the joint capsule and some of the surrounding capsule. The surgical procedure is similar for both dorsal and volar ganglions, but the latter is often located near the radial artery. In some cases, the volar ganglion even wraps around the artery, making the procedure more challenging. Dr Singh must exercise caution to protect the artery while simultaneously removing the cyst down to the joint capsule, as in the case of dorsal ganglions.
Once the cyst has been removed, the incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips, and a bandage is applied to the affected area.
Recovery Timelines
After the procedure, you’ll be taken to the recovery area where you will be observed for a short period of time before going home. It is normal to experience some tenderness, discomfort, and swelling after surgery and our team will provide you with medication to help manage any pain you may experience.
To support your wrist and forearm, a bulky dressing will be applied which you’ll need to keep in place for a period of time. You’ll also be encouraged to move your fingers and wrist soon after the surgery to prevent stiffness and to promote healing.
Typically, stitches are removed after two weeks, and you should be able to resume your normal activities within 2 to 6 weeks after the surgery however, it’s important to continue with any physiotherapy exercises that Dr Singh recommends until you’re able to move your wrist normally.
Potential Risks
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with a ganglion excision procedure including infection, damage to nerves, tendons or cartilage, stiffness or loss of joint motion or the ganglion may reappear, though this is uncommon.
Estimate of Fees
As a privately insured patient at Midwest Orthopaedics, typically, costs associated with surgery are as follows:
Your initial consultation fee, review consultation fee & Dr Singh’s surgical fees.
Your level of healthcare and your provider greatly influence your out-of-pocket expenses, so we recommend that you check with your health fund prior to booking in for surgery.
Other related charges include the Anaesthetist, the hospital fees and any in-patient pathology and radiology charges if x-rays or scans were required.
