Hip Cyst/Tumor Removal Surgery

Hip cyst/tumor removal surgery eliminates abnormal growths (cysts, tumors, or both) from the hip joint or surrounding tissues. These malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) growths can cause inflammation, pain, or mobility issues.

Why Would I Get Hip Cyst/Tumor Removal Surgery?

Not all growths in the hip area need to be removed; many hip cysts can be left alone to resolve on their own or can be treated without surgery. But if a cyst or tumor causes chronic hip pain or limits your mobility, removing it can eliminate those symptoms and restore function in your hip joint.

Removing the growth is also recommended if the growth is cancerous or seems likely to develop into cancer.

What Types of Growths Can Be Removed?

Removal is used to treat:

Benign

• Benign bone cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that develop in bone tissue
• Giant cell tumors: Benign but aggressive (fast-growing) tumors that can damage bone
• Osteochondromas: Benign overgrowth of bone and cartilage
• Synovial cysts or ganglion cysts: Benign, fluid-filled cysts that develop in the joint or surrounding soft tissue

Cancerous

• Chondrosarcoma or other malignant tumors: Cancerous tumors require removal

Cancerous or potentially cancerous growths are treated differently from benign lesions, requiring a more aggressive and multidisciplinary strategy.

If My Growth is Cancerous, Will I Need Surgery?

For cancerous lesions, surgery is usually necessary. The procedure involves removing the growth and surrounding tissue to ensure that all of the cancer is destroyed. This is typically paired with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy,

What Type of Anesthesia is Used?

This surgery is commonly performed using general anesthesia, meaning you're asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgery, cyst/tumor removal carries some risk of complications, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Recurrence of the tumor or cyst

What Will My Recovery Involve?

Recovery after hip cyst/tumor removal surgery involves:

• Hospital stay: Typically 1-3 days, but your stay may be longer, depending on the complexity of the procedure
• Pain management: Medications to help control discomfort after surgery
• Restricted weight-bearing: Temporary use of crutches or a walker and avoidance of weight-bearing activities
• Physical therapy: To restore strength and mobility

For cancerous tumors, you may need additional care after surgery, including chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Most patients recover within a few months, but complex cases may take longer, depending on factors that include:

• Size of growth
• Type of growth
• Overall health
• Adherence to rehabilitation plan

Treatment for cancerous growths is more aggressive and usually involves additional care, so recovery will vary based on the stage and type of cancer.

What Improvements Can I Expect?

Most patients can expect to experience pain relief, improved mobility, and better joint function.

What Are the Alternative Treatment Options?

Nonsurgical Treatments

• Medications for pain and inflammation
• Observation with imaging exams for regular evaluation

Surgical Treatments

• Needle aspiration: A needle is used to remove fluid from the hip joint
• Joint replacement: Replaces a damaged hip joint with an implant

What Is the Outlook for Hip Cyst/Tumor Removal Surgery?

Many patients experience significant pain relief and restored mobility after surgery. Your long-term outlook will depend on the nature of the growth; benign tumors generally have very good results, while the outcome for cancerous tumors will vary based on the cancer itself and what additional treatments you've received, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Will My Cyst Come Back?

Most benign tumors do not come back, but there are some types that have a higher chance of returning.

Cancerous growths have a higher likelihood of returning, so it’s important to work with your cancer care team to monitor your health.