This factsheet is for people who are considering having surgery to remove a ganglion. Ganglions are swellings that stick out from the lining of a joint or tendon.

Your care will be adapted to meet your individual needs and may differ from what is described here. So it’s important that you follow your surgeon’s advice.

Ganglion Cyst Treatment

The cyst can be removed through aspiration, although this has a return rate. The cyst can be removed at the source surgically.

About ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs. They can occur at any joint in your body, but are most common around the wrist. Ganglion cysts may also appear on the feet.

Ganglion cysts form when the natural lubricating fluid leaks out of a joint or tendon, making a little sac (or cyst).

Symptoms of ganglion cysts

The main symptom of a ganglion cyst is a swelling in the area affected. They tend to be smooth and round and can vary in size. Some can be large and prominent, while others are so small that you can’t feel or see them. Sometimes they shrink or grow, and may even disappear altogether, only to reappear at a later date.

If a ganglion cyst puts pressure on a nerve, you may experience discomfort or altered movement.

Diagnosis of ganglion cysts

Our doctor can usually make a diagnosis just by feeling and looking at the lump, and asking questions about your symptoms.

Sometimes, our doctor may suggest referral for an X-ray or other test, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to rule out other conditions or to check for small ganglion cysts that aren’t visible.