Removal of Soft Tissue Mass

What is wrong with my foot?

Soft tissue masses are quite common around the foot and ankle. There are many types of masses that can occur such as a ganglion, cyst, bursa, fibroma. They often fluctuate in size. 

Why has this happened?

Soft tissue masses maybe caused by a number of factors. They usually occur following irritation to the soft tissues or following an acute injury. Some occur due to an underlying bony prominence. It is also known that some people are naturally more prone to developing them than others.

Do I have to have an operation?

Padding, splints, foot orthoses and special shoes can be used to provide comfort around the soft tissue mass. In some instances it is also possible to drain some of the fluid away by aspiration (using a needle). Injecting cortisone around the mass can sometimes be helpful.

If the area is still uncomfortable then an operation will usually be recommended.

What will the operation involve?

The soft tissue mass is excised along with its outer lining or sac. If there is an underlying bony prominence then this is removed as well. The surgery can be performed under general or local anaesthetic. The foot will be heavily bandaged after the operation.

How successful is the operation?

Surgery is generally very successful as the pain from the mass is relieved by the operation. Recovery is generally quick and most patients feel significant improvement within a few weeks

Are there any risks associated with the operation?

As with any operation there are risks. Sometimes patients may experience a localised infection or nerve damage. Recurrence of the soft tissue mass can occur and the frequency depends on what type of soft tissue mass it is.

What will happen after the operation?

Surgery is performed as a day-case procedure. For the first 48 hours, you should rest in bed with your legs elevated and take the prescribed painkillers. During this time, you will be asked to do some foot exercises. You will be given a post-operative shoe to wear for 2 weeks, after which you can return to normal footwear and activities relatively quickly.

What happens when I leave hospital?

For the first 48 hours you will rest in bed with your legs elevated and should take the painkillers prescribed for you. You will be asked to do some foot exercises during this time. The bandages will be left on for 2 weeks. You will be given an appointment to return to have the bandages removed. You will be able to return to work from 1–3 weeks after the operation, depending on whether you need to stand or walk around a lot for your job. It is not recommended to drive until you come out of the post-operative shoe.