A ganglion cyst is a jelly like fluid-filled swelling that occurs near a joint or tendon. A ganglion on the wrist is the most common, and they are also found on the hands and fingers. They can also be found around other joints such as the foot, knee, or ankle.
They are benign and never become cancer. Hence treatment for ganglions are not normally offered on the NHS.
Ganglion cysts are not usually harmful or painful and may go away without treatment, though this can take from 6 months to 2-3 years. Occasionally it may break inside causing the jelly to leak under the skin, causing pain redness & inflammation which can take 6 weeks to settle.
Some ganglion cysts are painful and may cause difficulty with movement especially if they are large. If your cyst is causing symptoms you may need a procedure to drain or remove the cyst.
Some may not like the look of it, & wants it removed. You may have to have it done privately and you may be trading a scar for a lump.
What treatments are available ?
- Aspiration and Cortisone injection. Draining the jelly with a needle or tiny cut and putting a tiny amount of cortisone inside can help. Recurrence rate after this is 80%.
- Operation: After injecting a numbing agent a cut is made over the ganglion and the swelling removed. The wound is sutured close.
What are the complications of Operation?
Any surgical procedure has a small complication rate. The general complication for any surgery is Infection, Bleeding and damage to nerve or blood vessel in the vicinity.
Specific to Ganglion surgery,
- Recurrence rate is up ton 40%, more so if done by less experienced Surgeons.
- Pain and stiffness that may be permanent
- Loss of grip strength
- An abnormal bundle of nerves called a neuroma
- Unsightly scar that may remain numb after surgery
- Damage to the nerves or arteries
What is the cost of Private operation?
At St Lukes the cost is between £300 to £500 depending on the site and size.
What is the benefit of doing the operation at St Luke’s?
- We Provide a “no frills” consultation and operation of the highest quality at a low cost.
- Mr Pillai has over 40 years experience as a Orthopaedic Surgeon.
What to do if you desire treatment for your ganglion?
For NHS referral see your GP to refer to us by Choose and Book. It is likely that operation may be declined by NHS.
For private operation contact us by email clinicalinfo.M91647@nhs.net or 07801369602 to leave a message in the contact form.