Presentation and Surgical Outcome of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Objective:  The authors present their experience in evaluation of Clinical features and the surgical outcome of carpal tunnel syndrome. Material and Methods:  This descriptive study was conducted in Neurosurgery Department Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC), Peshawar from 31march 2008 to 30 march 2010. Thirty one patients from both sexes were included. There was no gender discrimination in patient selection. However age limit was from twenty to sixty years. Cases with multiple nerve compression abnormalities, cervical radiculopathy, ulnar nerve compression, diabetic polyneuropathy or those who had Long-term exposure to vibrating tools were excluded. Diagnosis were made on positive clinical history, clinical examinations and Confirmed by nerve conduction studies. Open carpal tunnel release was done and then followed for 3 months for relief of symptoms and complications. Results:  Thirty one patients were included. The youngest patient was 22 years while the oldest one was 56 years with mean age 34 years ± 29.3. Female to male ratio was 6:1.Commonest presentation was pain and paresthesia in the affected hand. Open surgical release was performed for all patients. One patient (3%) developed super-ficial surgical site infection. The results of surgical treatment were excellent with 90% patients being completely relieved of symptoms after three months fallow up. Conclusion:  Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in female and manual workers. Pain is the predominant symptoms. Some patients may present with complications. Open carpal tunnel release is still preferable because of minimum complications and quick recovery. Key Words:  Presentation. Surgical outcome. Carpal tunnel syndrome. Abbreviations:  CTS: Carpal tunnel syndrome