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

Objective. The aim of the study was to examine the relation between clinical findings, neurological examination and electrophysiological studies in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and share our institutional 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 evaluations were analyzed. Results. A total of 348 patients were included to the study. Weight and height measurements were significantly higher in patients with CTS on the right side (p=0.05 and p=0.04, respectively). Right hand side was the most dominant lateralization in patients with CTS (p=0.001) but there was no significant correlation for left side (p>0.05). The score of visual analogue scale was positively correlated with the severity of CTS (p=0.001). Thenar atrophy, hypoesthesia, positivity of Tinel and Phalen tests were also related to bilateral CTS (p=0.001 for each). Conclusion. We agree that clinical features, neurological examination findings and electrophysiological studies are effective diagnostic means in patients with CTS.