Ultrasound-Guided Ganglion Aspiration & Infiltration
Non-surgical, high-precision drainage and treatment of ganglion cysts.
A targeted ultrasound procedure to drain gel-like fluid from ganglion cysts in the wrist or foot, combined with a steroid injection to prevent recurrence.
Non-Surgical Ganglion Cyst Treatment
A ganglion cyst is a benign, fluid-filled lump that commonly develops along the joints or tendons of the wrists, hands, ankles, or feet. Ganglions can press on surrounding nerves, causing pain, weakness, or limited joint movement. While surgical removal is an option, an ultrasound-guided aspiration is a highly successful, non-surgical treatment.
At LifeScan Clinic in Naxxar, our consultant radiologists use real-time ultrasound to fully drain the thick, gelatinous fluid from the cyst, followed by a steroid infiltration to help collapse the sac and reduce recurrence rates.
Aspiration & Drainage
Draining Gelatinous Fluid
We resolve the lump size using real-time needle guidance:
- Visualizing the ganglion cyst and guiding a needle into its center
- Aspirating (drawing out) the thick, jelly-like joint fluid
- Immediate collapse of the cyst lump, relieving local nerve pressure
Steroid Infiltration
Reducing Recurrence
We add anti-inflammatory treatment to help seal the cyst:
- Injecting a small dose of steroid directly into the empty cyst cavity
- The steroid reduces local inflammation and promotes closure of the cyst sac
- Painless procedure completed under local anaesthetic numbing
Preparation & Post-Procedure Care
- No Fasting: You can eat and drink normally before the procedure.
- Post-Care Rest: Rest the affected hand, wrist, or foot and avoid heavy manual work or strenuous exercise for 48 hours after the aspiration.
- Blood Thinners: Inform us if you are taking blood-thinning medications, as you may need to pause them prior to the procedure.
Transparent, Dynamic Pricing
At LifeScan Malta, we believe in transparent pricing without surprises.
Because our booking fees are dynamic and subject to adjustments, the current up-to-date scan price is displayed directly in the booking widget below.
Prices are kept current in our digital calendar system so you never have to worry about outdated price lists on our pages.
Ultrasound-Guided Ganglion Aspiration & Infiltration
Why Choose LifeScan?
Experience board-certified expertise, same-day reporting, and state-of-the-art imaging.
Non-Surgical Cyst Removal
Provides a quick, highly effective alternative to surgical excision with zero incisions and zero downtime.
Ultrasound Guided Accuracy
Real-time imaging ensures the needle penetrates the exact center of the cyst, even if it is deep or near blood vessels.
Immediate Relief
Draining the fluid provides instant relief from cyst pressure, stiffness, and localized pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Ultrasound-Guided Ganglion Aspiration & Infiltration.
Is the ganglion aspiration painful?
We apply a local anaesthetic to numb the skin first. Because ganglion fluid is thick, the radiologist uses a slightly larger needle, but the local anaesthetic ensures you feel minimal discomfort.
What is the recurrence rate?
Ganglion cysts can recur, even after surgery. Combining aspiration with a steroid injection helps reduce the recurrence rate, but if the cyst returns, the procedure can be safely repeated.
Can I drive home after the procedure?
If the ganglion was on your wrist, you can usually drive. If the procedure was on your foot or ankle, we recommend arranging a ride home to rest the foot.