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Ganglion Cyst (cont.)

Medical Treatment

Many cysts (38-58%) can disappear without any treatment at all.

Various treatments have been proposed over the years. Some include telling people with cysts without symptoms not to worry, using a needle to remove the cyst's contents (aspiration), or surgery.

  • Aspiration usually includes placing a needle into the cyst, drawing the liquid material out, injecting a steroid compound (anti-inflammatory), and then splinting your wrist to keep it from moving.

  • Studies have shown up to 74% of people are cured after having the fluid drawn out with a needle 1 time.

  • If you have the fluid drawn out 3 times, your possibility of being cured goes up to 85%, particularly with a cyst on the back of the hand.

  • If you compare aspiration/injection and surgical removal, in general, cysts return less often after surgery.



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