Ganglion cyst removal Brisbane
- Author: Dr Andrew Hadj
- First published:
Ganglion cyst removal Brisbane
What exactly is a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a benign lump that most often appears around the wrist or hand but can also form in the joints of the digits. It is filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid and is connected to a joint or tendon by a small stalk. These cysts can vary in size; some are barely noticeable while others grow large enough to interfere with daily activities.
A ganglion cyst might:
- Present as either a soft or a firm lump, based on its fluid content.
- Fluctuate in size, becoming more prominent with activity and less noticeable with rest.
- Disappear and reappear unpredictably over a period of weeks.
- Put pressure on nearby nerves, which can result in tingling, weakness, or general discomfort.
Hand surgeon Brisbane
Why do ganglion cysts form?
Ganglion cysts form from several factors:
- Joint lining tears: A tiny tear can allow fluid to escape and form a cyst.
- Repetitive wrist use: High-use activities like typing, certain sports, or heavy manual work can put stress on the joints and may contribute to their formation.
- Arthritis: These cysts are sometimes associated with the underlying joint wear and tear that comes with arthritis. Small bone spurs also make this more likely.
- Previous injury: A past injury or trauma to the joint or tendon can increase the risk of a cyst developing in that area.
The cysts are most common in younger adults and tend to affect women slightly more often than men, though they can occur in people of all ages and backgrounds.
Impact on daily life
A ganglion cyst isn’t just a cosmetic issue – for many, it’s a real disruption to daily life. While some people may only feel mild frustration, others find it significantly impacts their routine and occasionally can be painful.
“Ganglion cysts can affect everyday tasks such as gripping, lifting, or typing, particularly if the lump presses on nerves or restricts wrist movement.”
Dr Andrew Hadj
Plastic surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast
Hand Specialist Brisbane
When to seek a hand specialist's help?
Not every ganglion cyst needs medical attention, but you should consider seeing a hand surgeon if you experience any of the following:
- Growing pain or a noticeable increase in the cyst’s size.
- Difficulty performing daily tasks such as using a keyboard or holding objects.
- Ongoing weakness or a tingling sensation in your fingers.
- Concern about its appearance, even if it is not causing any physical symptoms.
- A recurrence of the lump after previous treatment.
“A ganglion cyst may occasionally cause pain but predominantly it can interfere with hand function. This is often the reason people seek treatment.”
Dr Andrew Hadj
Hand surgeon Brisbane
How is a ganglion cyst diagnosed?
A physical examination is often enough to diagnose a ganglion cyst. During your consultation, we will:
- Examine the lump and surrounding structures.
- Check its movement as you flex your wrist or hand.
- Discuss your symptoms, including any pain, weakness, or changes in sensation.
In some cases, further imaging may be recommended:
- Ultrasound – to confirm the cyst and rule out other causes of swelling.
- MRI scan – used when the cyst is deep or not clearly visible.
Ganglion cyst removal
Treatment options for Ganglion cyst removal in Brisbane
The best treatment depends on your symptoms, how the cyst behaves, and how much it impacts your life. For some, observation is enough, but for others, surgery is the best solution for a lasting result.
- Observation: If your cyst is small and doesn’t cause pain, we might recommend a “watch and wait” approach. Ganglion cysts can sometimes disappear on their own.
- Splinting or rest: For cysts that worsen with activity, limiting specific wrist or hand movements may help. Using a splint or simply reducing strain on the joint can shrink the cyst and relieve discomfort.
- Needle aspiration: In this simple procedure, we use a fine needle to drain the fluid inside the cyst. However, because it doesn’t remove the source, it may result in a high chance of recurrence of over 85%. This is rarely performed.
- Surgery: This is an effective long-term solution for painful or recurring cysts. The surgery removes both the cyst and its stalk, offering a lower rate of recurrence compared to aspiration (less than 2%).
“During surgery the cyst is removed along with its stalk and capsule, which can reduce the chance of recurrence compared with fluid drainage alone.”
Dr Andrew Hadj
Plastic surgeon Brisbane
What to expect from surgery
Ganglion cyst removal surgery, or ganglionectomy, is usually performed as a day procedure, which means you can return home without an overnight stay. This is a very common and generally straightforward procedure performed by hand specialists.
Here is what you can expect from your surgery:
- Anaesthetic: You’ll be made comfortable with either a local anaesthetic that numbs only the hand or a general anaesthetic to make sure you are asleep. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you.
- Incision: A small cut is made over the cyst to access it. The size of the incision depends on where the cyst sits and whether it is close to nerves, tendons, or blood vessels.
- Removal: The cyst and its capsule or stalk are carefully removed. This process significantly reduces the chance of recurrence compared to aspiration, which only drains the fluid.
- Quick closure: The incision is closed with stitches, and a light bandage or splint is applied to provide support and minimise swelling.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery from ganglion cyst surgery is usually a smooth process, though everyone heals a bit differently. Most people are back to light daily activities within days, while more demanding tasks take a little longer.
- Mild swelling, tenderness, or a pulling sensation around the incision for the first few days. Simple pain relief and keeping the hand elevated often help. An ice pack can also reduce swelling if used carefully.
- Stitches will be removed in about two weeks. At this stage, the skin is typically well-healed, and patients feel more confident using their hand for gentle activities.
- Many people are able to write, type, or do light household tasks soon after surgery. However, activities such as heavy lifting, gardening, or sports should be avoided for several weeks to prevent swelling and a slower healing process.
Role of hand therapy
Hand therapy is a vital part of your recovery. Our dedicated hand therapists at Queensland Hand Surgery work closely with you to help restore movement and strength. Therapy may focus on several key areas:
- Guided exercises to restore movement
- Swelling reduction techniques
- Gradual strengthening
- Splinting to support the wrist if needed
This combination of hand surgery and rehabilitation is what helps patients regain comfort and confidence in using their hand.
The consultation process
When you come in for a suspected ganglion cyst, here’s what you can expect from your consultation.
- Sharing your story – You will have a chance to explain how the lump affects you day to day.
- Examination – We’ll carefully examine your hand and wrist.
- Tests – An ultrasound or MRI can be ordered to get a clearer view of the lump.
- Treatment discussion – Options are explained, with the benefits and limitations of each.
- Questions – You’ll have time to ask about recovery, returning to work, driving, or sport.
“It’s not about rushing to surgery. It’s about listening to what the condition means for your life and tailoring treatment to your needs.”
Dr Andrew Hadj
Hand surgeon Brisbane
Hand surgeon Brisbane
Why QLD Hand Surgery?
Queensland Hand Surgery is dedicated solely to hand conditions. Dr Andrew Hadj has performed thousands of procedures, from emergency trauma cases to elective surgeries such as carpal tunnel release, Dupuytren’s contracture, and ganglion cyst removal.
“Our focus is on hands; it’s what we do every day. Having five in-house hand therapists means we look after patients from the first consultation right through to full recovery.”
Dr Andrew Hadj
QLD Hand Surgeon
We welcome patients from across Brisbane and the Gold Coast (Burleigh Waters), and you can learn more about our hand surgery services or meet Dr Andrew Hadj to understand how we can help. Book your appointment with us today.