1. Preoperative Considerations
- Assessment: Confirm the diagnosis through clinical examination. If needed, use ultrasound to assess the cyst depth.
- Patient Preparation: Advise the patient on the procedure, risks, and post-operative care.
- Sterilization: Clean the area with an antiseptic solution (chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine).
2. Surgical Removal
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia (lidocaine with epinephrine) to minimize bleeding and pain.
- Incision Choice:
- If the cyst is small and intact, a minimal excision technique using a small incision over the cyst may allow for easy removal.
- For larger cysts, an elliptical incision around the cyst with an undermining approach is recommended.
- Complete Excision: The entire cyst, including its capsule, must be removed to prevent recurrence. Avoid rupture of the cyst to minimize inflammation.
- Hemostasis: Cauterization or pressure control bleeding.
3. Closure and Scar Prevention
- Minimal Suturing: Use fine sutures (e.g., 6-0 or 7-0 non-absorbable) to reduce scarring.
- Wound Edges Approximation: Avoid excessive tension to prevent hypertrophic scarring.
- Topical Scar Prevention: Consider silicone gel or sheets post-healing.
4. Postoperative Care
- Antibiotics (if needed): If infection risk is high, a short course of antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Wound Care: Keep the area clean and dry; apply antibiotic ointment.
- Follow-up: Monitor for signs of infection or recurrence
