Ganglion Cyst Excision
What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a sac filled with a jelly-like fluid that originates from a tendon sheath or joint capsule. The word “ganglion” means "knot" and is used to describe the knot-like mass or lump that forms below the surface of the skin.
Ganglion cysts are among the most common benign soft-tissue masses. Although they most often occur on the wrist, they also frequently develop on the foot — usually on the top, but elsewhere as well. Ganglion cysts vary in size, may get smaller or larger, and may even disappear completely, only to return later.A Closer Look at Ganglion Cysts
Patients Come First At Our Escondido Practice
Jen Wass
2021
I came to see Dr. Morris after a very long and disappointing experience with another Podiatrist. My expectations have been exceeded not only from him, but his great staff as well. He listened, and very clearly explained my situation and the possible treatment options available. I now feel as though I am in very competent hands.
View on GoogleHope Gillespie
2022
[Dr. Morris] went about my treatment in a way that the others did not... I am 100% pain free and back to normal activities...He is absolutely amazing and is such a nice and personable Dr. And his staff, Irma, Tisha, and Donald were all so nice and very helpful throughout the whole process. Always a pleasure when I went in and very quick to address any needs I had. I highly recommend Dr Morris and his staff.
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Do You Suspect You Have
a Ganglion Cyst?
Are You in Pain?
Often patients with ganglion cysts do not feel any pain — or, if they do, it's typically a dull ache.
Stronger pain can signal inflammation or infection — both of which may cause complications. Redness, new swelling, and tenderness at the site of your ganglion cyst should not be ignored. These new symptoms may signal you need treatment for an infection.
Are Ganglion Cysts Dangerous?
Let us start off by putting you at ease: ganglion cysts are not dangerous.
If you notice a ganglion cyst on your foot or wrist, you may worry that you have a tumor along your joint. However, ganglion cysts are benign, fluid-filled sacs attached by a stalk. They tend to be more of a cosmetic concern..
In fact, in many cases the cyst is painless and simply needs monitoring. It may even resolve on its own without any need for treatment.
For your peace of mind, though, you can visit North County Foot & Ankle Specialists in Escondido for a consultation. Contact our office or call
(760) 745-1226
How Is a Ganglion Cyst Diagnosed?
To diagnose a ganglion cyst, our foot and ankle surgeon will perform a thorough examination of your foot. The lump will be visually apparent, and, when pressed in a certain way, it should move freely underneath the skin.
Sometimes the surgeon will shine a light through the cyst or remove a small amount of fluid from the cyst for evaluation. Your doctor may take an X-ray, and in some cases, additional imaging studies may be ordered.Can I Pop My Ganglion Cyst Myself?
No! You should never try to pop a ganglion cyst on your own.
At home, you can never fully recreate the sterile environment of a medical office, which means that you may inadvertently cause a dangerous infection or abscess. You also likely don't have the medical experience to safely pop your ganglion cyst.
Not to mention, it may not actually need any treatment at all. Besides, you have North County Foot & Ankle Specialists to help you every step of the way, so you can safely receive treatment. From aspiration procedures to surgery, our patients are in good hands.
If you are unsure what to do, leave us a message and we will get back to you:
Do I Need Surgery For My Ganglion Cyst?
We Prioritize Less Invasive Methods
You might need excision surgery for your ganglion cyst, but it's a less likely treatment procedure. We will first exhaust all non-surgical options, such as monitoring, aspiration, and injection, before resorting to surgery.
Choosing Surgery When Appropriate
When other treatment options fail or are not appropriate, the cyst may need to be surgically removed through excision. The recurrence rate after surgery is much lower than with aspiration and injection therapy, however, there are still cases in which the ganglion cyst returns.
Patients Recommend Us To Their Friends and Family
Naureen Kamdar
2021
Great experience! Comfortable orthotics that resolved my pain and would highly recommend to friends and family!
View on GoogleJames Urbanoski
2021
Really liked the dr and the staff. I really appreciate that I can call and get a person on the phone too.
View on GoogleTaking Photos Yourself Can Result in More Knowledgable Treatment
You've made your appointment at North County Foot & Ankle Specialists. Now what?
Before you visit our Escondido office, you can do one thing to improve your treatment: Take photos of your ganglion cyst.
These photos, captured over time, can show us how your cyst has developed. They can also give us more information to use during your treatment.
Additionally, if you notice quick growth or redness and swelling that signals an infection, take a non-toxic marker and draw a circle around the area. If the redness expands outside the circle, you may have an infection. Seek treatment immediately to avoid any painful or dangerous complications.
