4.4. Orthropaedic Problems of the Hand - Ganglia

Question 1

What is a Ganglion?

Answer 1

A Myxoid Degeneration from a Joint Synovia

Question 2

What does a Ganglion arise from?

Answer 2

1. A Joint Capsule
2. A Joint Tendon Sheath
3. A Joint Ligament

Question 3

Which sex do Ganglion’s most commonly present in?

Answer 3

Females (2:1)

Question 4

What is the most common age of presentation of Ganglions?

Answer 4

20-40 years old

Question 5

Where do the majority of Ganglia present in the hand?

Answer 5

Dorsal > Volar (3:1)

Note - 70% of all discrete swellings in the hand and wrist are ganglia

Question 6

What are Ganglia associated with?

Answer 6

Recurrent injury of the Wrist

Question 7

What are the characteristics of a Ganglionic lump?

Answer 7

1. Firm but Non-Tender
2. Change in Size
3. Smooth but occasionally Lobulated
4. Normally Not Fixed to underlying Tissue
5. Not fixed to the Skin

Question 8

What is the Non-Operative management of Ganglia?

Answer 8

1. Reassure the patient and Observe
2. Aspiration
3. Hit with a Bible

Question 9

What are the Operative Management of Ganglia?

Answer 9

Rare:

Excision including the “Root”