The diagnostic efficacy of clinical findings and electrophysiological studies in carpal tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Objectives. The aim of the study was to examine the relation between clinical findings, neurologicalexamination and electrophysiological studies in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and share ourinstitutional experience in patients with CTS. Methods. Patients presenting with complaints of pain, paresthesia,and weakness in hands who diagnosed CTS between 2014 and 2015 were examined retrospectively.Demographic characteristics, clinical and neurological examination findings and electrodiagnostic evaluationswere analyzed. Results. A total of 348 patients were included to the study. Weight and height measurementswere significantly higher in patients with CTS on the right side (p=0.05 and p=0.04, respectively). Right handside was the most dominant lateralization in patients with CTS (p=0.001) but there was no significantcorrelation for left side (p>0.05). The score of visual analogue scale was positively correlated with the severityof CTS (p=0.001). Thenar atrophy, hypoesthesia, positivity of Tinel and Phalen tests were also related tobilateral CTS (p=0.001 for each). Conclusion. We agree that clinical features, neurological examinationfindings and electrophysiological studies are effective diagnostic means in patients with CTS