Cyst Aspiration

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the body that are usually benign. If a cyst becomes very large, painful, or look abnormal on diagnostic imaging it may need to be drained or aspirated.

The radiologist uses lidocaine to numb the area to be aspirated. This can sometimes sting for a few seconds but that quickly subsides. After the numbing patients may feel some pressure or pushing but should not feel anything sharp for the remainder of the procedure. Imaging is used to locate the cyst and guides a small needle into the area to draw out the fluid. Once complete, a simple bandage is all that will need to be applied over the spot where the needle was inserted. The physician will assess the fluid and determine whether or not to send it to the lab to be evaluated.