Removing Cysts - Simple And Easy Procedures

By Amanda Clark

A cyst, regardless of where it is located, is simply a sac of fluid. Cysts can range in size, occur almost anywhere, and may cause no problem, or lots of problems. Some doctors just prefer removing cysts to be safe. Depending on the location of the cyst, or the pain and discomfort it causes, your doctor may also prescribe painkillers and/or in the case of ovarian cysts, hormonal therapy which includes certain types of birth control pills used to shrink the mass of tissue.

Removing cysts is usually a simple procedure assuming only the cyst is being removed. If an ovarian cyst is to be removed it is usually done on an outpatient basis, using only local anesthesia vs. General anesthesia in most cases, and it is done laparoscopically.

Complications are few, and rare - post op bleeding or an infection. Biopsies are usually done as a routine screening practice.

For cysts that are already bleeding or perhaps have attached themselves to an internal organ that could be damaged, such as a Fallopian tube or even part of an intestine, surgery would be more complicated. Occasionally the cyst needs to be drained first before surgery is performed in order to reduce the chances of having the cyst burst just prior to or during surgery.

The scalp is another area that suffers from cysts. With all the hair products we tend to use, combined with natural scalp oils, it's no wonder that cysts in these areas are so common. Some can become quite painful, others can exist an entire lifetime without being a problem. The ones that typically end up needing treatment are those that become irritated with constant brushing or zealous washing.

For those that do need removal, it's done in a doctor's office using a simple procedure called a needle extraction. For cysts whose contents are less fluid, total removal is probably necessary. These both can be done under a topical anesthetic such as Novocain. Depending on the size you may need one stitch. - 29962

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