Ganglion Excision Post Op Protcol

Post-operative Patient Care

  • Remove dressing 5 days after surgery. You may cover the incision with a DRY, CLEAN bandage or dressing
  • You may shower and clean the incision with running water and light soap
  • NEVER soak the incision in bath, swimming pool, hot tub until instructed by Dr. Cinats
  • DO NOT use antiseptics, antibiotics, or creams on the incision
  • ELEVATE the operated limb and ice as much as possible for the first 48-72 hours after surgery
  • You will be seen by Dr. Cinats in the clinic approximately 14 days after your surgery to check your incision and have your sutures removed

Post-operative Activity Guide

  • Begin moving and wiggling the fingers IMMEDIATELY after surgery. This helps with swelling and pain control
  • Progress to making a full fist by 24-48 hours after surgery
  • Remember the ganglion was removed from the wrist joint, so it is normal to have pain when moving the wrist. Continue to move the wrist however, but let pain be your guide.
  • AVOID lifting, pushing, or pulling more than 5lbs with the operated limb for 2 weeks after surgery

Pain Control after Ganglion Excision

  • Your wrist or finger has been injected with a local freezing which lasts 12-18 hours
  • You should start taking pain medication before the freezing wears off to ensure you stay on top of pain
  • The below medications are usually safe for most patients, but certain medical conditions may limit your ability to take these medications
  • PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ANY MEDICATION
  • The first medications you should take are Tylenol and Advil
    • Tylenol 1000mg every 6 hours
    • Advil 400mg every 6 hours
  • If you pain is not controlled by alternating Tyenol and Advil, you can take the prescription medication that has been provided