The results of carpal tunnel release for carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed on clinical grounds, with or without electrophysiological investigations: a randomized study

Abstract

We compared the results of carpal tunnel release in patients with the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome based on only clinical grounds and those diagnosed on clinical and electrophysiological grounds. Ninety-three patients, 83 women (89%) and ten men (11%), meeting the criteria of ‘typical’ carpal tunnel syndrome, were randomly assigned to receive carpal tunnel release with ( n = 45, 48%) or without ( n = 48, 52%) nerve conduction studies. Patients were followed-up at 1 and 6 months, by assessments that included the Levine scores, filament tests, grip and pinch strength. No significant differences in Levine scores were found at the 1 and 6 months assessments. Statistically significant differences were noted in three-point pinch strength and sensation; however, they were not of clinical importance. The results of the study show that the results of carpal tunnel release in patients with typical symptoms are no better after nerve conduction studies and, therefore, nerve conduction studies can be omitted.