Abstract
1. Three cases of ganglion of the lateral popliteal nerve are reported, all of which were treated by resection of the nerve.
2. In none was a connection between the ganglion and the superior tibio-fibular joint seen.
3. A careful histological study suggests that the condition is one of simple ganglion arising in the supporting tissues of the nerve.
4. A search of the literature has revealed twelve reported cases. The clinical and operative findings, together with the results of treatment, have been reviewed.
5. The treatment of choice is dissection of the ganglion from the nerve. If this proves difficult because of the multiplicity of cysts, incision and evacuation of cyst contents should be performed, although recurrence is possible after this procedure.
6. The prognosis for recovery of function is good when paralysis has been present for less than one year. Recovery of motor function is unlikely to be complete if there has been a longer duration of paralysis, though sensory recovery is usually good.
