A ganglion, a ballooning of the joint capsule or tendon sheath, can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when it becomes large or presses on surrounding tissues. Ganglion excision surgery is a straightforward procedure designed to remove the ganglion and provide relief. This guide will walk you through the procedure, its benefits, and the recovery process.
What is Ganglion Excision Surgery?
Ganglion excision surgery involves the complete removal of the ganglion, addressing the root cause of pain or discomfort. This procedure is typically performed on the top of the foot, with an incision placed over the space between the metatarsal heads. Absorbable stitches are used whenever possible, and plaster is generally not required.
The surgery usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes and does not involve bone healing or fixation, making the recovery relatively quick.
Why Consider This Surgery?
The primary goals of ganglion excision surgery are:
To alleviate pain caused by the ganglion.
To remove troublesome or enlarging ganglions.
To improve mobility and comfort in footwear.
Advantages:
A relatively short procedure.
The lesion is excised completely.
No bone healing required.
Minimal recovery time.
Risks and Considerations
While ganglion excision surgery is generally safe, specific risks include:
Thickened or tender scars, which may improve over 12 months.
Areas of numbness, which may also reduce over time.
Recurrence of the ganglion.
Circulation disturbances in the affected area.
Your consultant will discuss these risks with you in detail and provide guidance on how to minimise them.
Who is a Candidate for This Procedure?
This surgery is recommended for individuals experiencing:
Painful or troublesome ganglions that interfere with daily activities.
Numbness or pressure-related symptoms caused by the ganglion.
Difficulty fitting into sensible footwear due to the size or location of the ganglion.
Alternative treatments:
Altering activity levels.
Using painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications.
Changing footwear or using extra-width shoes with protectors.
Drainage of the ganglion without excision (may be less effective long-term).
What to Expect During Surgery
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which is administered around the base of the toe. Most patients find this more comfortable than a dental injection. If preferred, sedation or general anaesthesia can also be considered.
Although the surgery itself is brief, you will spend some time in the day surgery unit before and after the operation to rest. A responsible adult must accompany you home and assist you for the first 24 hours.
Recovery Timeline
First 2-4 Days:
Pain is typically most intense during this period, but painkillers will help manage discomfort.
Rest is crucial. Keep your foot elevated and minimise movement.
Use crutches as instructed to avoid putting weight on the operated foot.
One Week After Surgery:
Attend a follow-up appointment for dressing changes.
Gradually increase activity within pain limits. Swelling or pain indicates overexertion.
Two Weeks After Surgery:
Sutures will be removed unless located on the sole of the foot (these are removed after three weeks).
Bandages are no longer required, and you may no longer need crutches.
You can get the foot wet and start wearing regular shoes if comfortable.
2-6 Weeks After Surgery:
The foot begins to feel normal, though swelling may persist, especially at the end of the day.
You may return to work, although manual labour may require additional recovery time.
Driving can resume if you can safely perform an emergency stop. Confirm with your insurer.
Avoid sports and high-impact activities during this period.
8-12 Weeks After Surgery:
Swelling decreases significantly, and the foot feels more natural.
You may consider returning to sports or other activities based on recovery progress.
Six Months After Surgery:
A follow-up review will evaluate your recovery.
Swelling should be minimal, and most patients experience the full benefits of the procedure.
Twelve Months After Surgery:
Complete healing is achieved, with stabilisation of any remaining improvements.
Planning for Recovery
To ensure a smooth recovery:
Arrange for assistance with daily tasks during the initial weeks.
Follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your consultant.
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
Ganglion excision surgery is a reliable solution for removing problematic ganglions and improving foot comfort. With proper care and adherence to recovery protocols, most patients experience significant relief and return to normal activities. If you’re considering this procedure, consult your healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right option for you.