[Arthrographic imaging of ganglions of the hand]

In the genesis of ganglions synovial herniation is discussed with an existence of a valve mechanism which prevents the synovial fluid from returning into the joint space. Arthrography of the wrist was performed in 34 patients with suspicion of ganglions on the dorsal and volar aspect of the wrist. By injection of contrast medium in 6 cases directly into the ganglion no connection with the carpal joint cavity was seen. On the contrary, wrist arthrography with examination of the midcarpal and radiocarpal joint showed regularly a communication by a torturous narrow duct between the midcarpal joint and the dorsal ganglion and the radiocarpal joint and the volar ganglion. Other pathologic findings were seen, like tears of the scapholunate ligament and of the triangular fibrocartilage. The consequences for surgical therapy and conclusions for the aetiology of the ganglions are shown.