Can General Anesthesia Be Used for Cyst Removal Surgery?

Sebaceous cyst excision

Hello Doctor: I have had inflammation of my sebaceous cyst for the second time now.
I would like to ask if it is possible to perform the cyst removal under general anesthesia to ensure a more complete excision, as it is located in the gluteal cleft.
Every time it becomes inflamed, it is very painful when I sleep, sit, or lie down.
During the first incident, I had drainage done, but the doctor did not use local anesthesia.
I was too afraid to have drainage done again the second time, so I took medication to let the inflammation subside gradually.
Once it resolves, I plan to have the cyst removed, and I wanted to inquire if general anesthesia is an option.
Thank you, Doctor.

Yuting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/17

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It's not about whether it can be done, but rather whether it is necessary to use general anesthesia, which carries its own risks.
Typically, cyst removal surgery can be performed under local anesthesia.
You should discuss this with your physician.

Reply Date: 2020/02/17

More Info

Yes, general anesthesia can be used for cyst removal surgery, including the removal of a sebaceous cyst, which is often referred to as a "pilar cyst" or "epidermoid cyst." The decision to use general anesthesia depends on several factors, including the location of the cyst, the complexity of the procedure, the patient's medical history, and the preference of both the patient and the surgical team.

In your case, since the cyst is located in a sensitive area (the buttocks), and you have experienced significant pain during previous episodes of inflammation, general anesthesia may be a suitable option. General anesthesia allows for the patient to be completely unconscious and free of pain during the procedure, which can be particularly beneficial for surgeries in sensitive or painful areas. This approach can also help the surgeon perform the procedure more effectively, as the patient will not be moving or experiencing discomfort during the operation.

Before proceeding with general anesthesia, it is essential to have a thorough preoperative evaluation. This evaluation typically includes a review of your medical history, any medications you are currently taking, and any allergies you may have. The anesthesiologist will assess your overall health and determine if there are any risks associated with using general anesthesia in your specific case.
In some instances, local anesthesia combined with sedation may also be an option for cyst removal. This approach involves numbing the area around the cyst while providing sedation to help you relax. However, given your previous experiences with pain and discomfort, general anesthesia might be the better choice for you to ensure a more comfortable and pain-free experience during the surgery.

It is also important to discuss your concerns and preferences with your surgeon and the anesthesiologist. They can provide you with detailed information about the anesthesia options available, the risks and benefits associated with each, and what to expect during the procedure.
In summary, general anesthesia is a viable option for cyst removal surgery, especially in cases where the cyst is painful and located in a sensitive area. Make sure to communicate openly with your healthcare team about your pain management needs and any concerns you may have regarding the procedure. This will help ensure that you receive the best possible care tailored to your individual situation.

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