Mucous Cyst Excision

The surgery requires a small incision directly over the cyst. Dissection is taken down to the level of the joint and the stalk of the cyst is excised. Additionally, any osteophytes are identified if present and then removed. The finger is usually placed in a soft dressing for the first few days after surgery. After this time the dressing may be removed and the patient is encouraged to begin gentle range of motion. The stitches are removed after two weeks and the patient is cleared to return to all activities.

Formal therapy is generally not necessary; instead simple range of motion exercises can be performed at home. To keep your fingers moving, alternate between straightening and flexing each finger making sure to attempt to complete a full fist. This a simple yet important part of your recovery. It is also important to gently massage your surgical scar (after the first week) which will help soften and desensitize the healing tissue.