Question
I had wrist surgery in January for a ganglion cyst on the inside of my wrist. It was painful and affected my quality of life. It was healing well until six weeks ago. The cyst has returned and is causing the same symptoms prior to surgery. What can I do?
Answer
Unfortunately, recurrence of a ganglion cyst is not that uncommon.
The options are still the same. You can live with it if it doesn't hurt very much. You can potentially have it drained. Or, you can have it excised again.
Recurrences do occur, even with experienced hand surgeons. The published recurrence rate is six percent. If you had it removed by someone other than an experienced hand surgeon, maybe its time to see one.
Explore related topics
Meet our care team

Related questions
View all questions- Health Q&A
Treatment for Ganglion Cyst
I have had a lump on my left wrist for over a year. It was bigger at one time and now is small. Sometimes in protrudes through the skin. Should I be worried about this? It doesn't hurt.
- Health Q&A
Numbness and Tingling in the Hands
I wake up with my right hand numb. My thumb and middle finger seem the worst. It takes awhile for the numbness to wear off. I work in a grocery store, so I'm always on my feet and on the register. What should I do?
- Health Q&A
Swollen Elbow (Olecranon Bursitis)
My right elbow has been swollen for a few days, and it feels like it’s full of fluid. I don’t remember injuring it, and I don’t really feel any pain. I tried icing it, but the swelling did not go down. What could this be, and should I see my doctor?
What is olecranon bursitis and how is it treated?
- Health Q&A
ACL Tear or Arthritis in Knee?
I had an X-ray and MRI on my right knee for severe pain. The radiologist said there was an ACL tear, but my doctor attributed it to arthritis. I don't have swelling and the pain is intermittent. If it were arthritis, wouldn't I have other symptoms?




