Functional outcome of surgery done for carpal tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common, chronic and disabling condition afflicting many people. The common age at onset is 40 to 50, although a person of any age may be affected. The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is often based on clinical findings alone. Electro-diagnostic studies of carpal tunnel syndrome were first established in 1956 by demonstrating focal slowing of median nerve conduction at wrist. This study is meant to evaluate the functional outcome of carpal tunnel release surgery done in Al Azhar Medical College from 2012-2014.

Methods: 50 cases (5 cases being bilateral) of carpal tunnel syndrome were operated between 2012 to 2014. All cases were done under local anesthesia. Patients were retrospectively evaluated and interviewed for 2 months follow up after the surgery.

Results: Out of the 50 patients who had undergone surgery, 44 patients (88%) had symptomatic relief in the first 10 days. Remaining patients had symptomatic relief in 2 months time.

Conclusions: Surgery is always the preferred treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. In my study, 6 patients (12%) had long standing carpal tunnel syndrome, hence it took 2 months for symptomatic relief. Remaining patients had symptomatic relief in the first 10 days.