Ganglion Cyst

Treatment

If the ganglion cyst is not painful, initial treatment may simply be to keep a watchful eye on the cyst. If the cyst is causing pain or interfering with normal activities, other treatment options can be explored:

• Immobilization. A brace or splint may be recommended to immobilize your wrist to reduce swelling.
• Aspiration. If the cyst is large or painful, the doctor may drain fluid from it with a fine needle. However, the cyst and stalk remain after aspiration, and they can refill with fluid.
• Surgery. Surgery may be recommended if the other treatments fail. During surgery (usually an outpatient procedure), the cyst is removed along with a small amount of surrounding tissue. The cyst may return even after surgery.

Read more about ganglion cyst treatment at MayoClinic.com.