Ganglion N014

Current RMA Instruments

SOP bulletin information on new SOPs

ICD Coding

• ICD-10-AM Codes: M67.4

Brief description

A ganglion is a common non-cancerous (benign), fluid-filled swelling overlying a joint or tendon. It arises from the joint capsule or tendon sheath and is filled with a thick fluid. They are most often found in the wrist or hand but can occur at many other sites (elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, foot or spine).  They may cause pain, weakness, and loss of function.

Confirming the diagnosis

The diagnosis can often be made based on the findings on clinical examination.  Ultrasound or MRI may be useful when the diagnosis may require further evaluation. 

To establish the diagnosis, the assessment and/or management may involve consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon or hand surgeon. However, general practitioners are commonly able to confirm this diagnosis.

Additional diagnoses covered by SOP

• ganglion cyst

Conditions not covered by SOP

• Baker's cyst or popliteal cyst of knee *
• Cyst of bursa #
• Epidermoid cyst #
• Ganglion in yaws #
• Synovial cyst # 
• Tarlov cyst #

* another SoP applies

# non- SoP condition

Clinical onset

Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the clinical onset can be taken from when the current swelling first became evident.

Clinical worsening

Ganglions may resolve spontaneously, and most do not require treatment. Aspiration or surgical treatment may be indicated for pain or loss of function.  Even with surgical removal, there is a small chance of recurrence. Clinical worsening may occur if the condition is left without appropriate management.