Treatment Options:
Aspiration
Aspiration is a procedure in which the fluid is drawn out of the cyst through the use of a syringe. This procedure is a temporary fix used for immediate relief of pain and size reduction. If the cyst is attached to the joint or tendon sheath it will eventually grow back.
Bracing
Ganglion cysts can become irritated and increase in size due to mobility of the wrist. Bracing or splinting the wrist reduces range of motion and relieving some of the pressure put on the cyst, ultimately reducing pain. This treatment method can also reduce irritation of the cyst causing it to gradually decrease in size. Bracing may be used with other treatments including physical therapy if the wrist or hand has been weakened as a result of the cyst.
Surgery
Surgery is used as a last-resort treatment when all other treatments have failed. The surgery of a ganglion cyst is called an excision and involves removing the cyst and the part of the joint capsule or tendon where the root of the ganglion resides.