Does carpal canal stenosis predict outcome in women with carpal tunnel syndrome?

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the role of carpal canal stenosis as a predictor of outcome in patients who underwent surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

METHODS

We performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the wrist in 31 female patients with clinically and neurophysiologically confirmed CTS. With a computerized analyser we quantitatively calculated the focal narrowest point of the tunnel. Patient's assessment of CTS-related symptoms were obtained by using a visual analogue scale before, and 6 months after treatment.

RESULTS

Seventeen (56%) patients improved in all symptoms after treatment. The focal narrowest point of the tunnel was identified at its distal third in all patients, at 8 mm from the outlet. The median area of the narrowest point in those who improved clinically (n=17) was 238.9 mm2 compared with 269.8 mm2 in others (n=14), P=0.046.

CONCLUSION

Identification of carpal canal stenosis may be important in selecting candidates for treatment in symptomatic CTS.