Carpal tunnel syndrome: Clinical, electrophysiological, and ultrasonographic ratio after surgery

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and to highlight the ultrasonographic cross-sectional area (CSA) ratio as a tool for assessing outcomes by investigating postoperative changes. Methods: Twenty-four individuals with CTS were evaluated using the Boston questionnaire, nerve conduction studies, and ultrasound, preoperatively and at 3 weeks and 3 months postoperatively. Results: Improved symptom scores, decreased CSA, and decreased CSA ratio were observed in the first 3 weeks, but functional improvement was also observed after 3 weeks postoperatively. The ratios between the CSA at the sites of enlargement and unaffected areas correlated significantly with the Padua classification, although the coefficient was not superior to the coefficient of CSA at the maximal swelling site. Conclusions: Symptoms improved more rapidly than function after surgery. Measurement of the ultrasonographic CSA ratio may provide clinicians with a useful assessment tool after surgery. Muscle Nerve, 2012