Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

04:08
Metacarpal Small Incision for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Published on: April 5, 2024
Functional outcomes post carpal tunnel release: a modified replication of a previous study
Mary Ann Appleby1, Marsha Neville-Smith, Melissa W Parrott
1Dallas Hand Rehabilitation, Dallas, Texas, USA. dhandrehab@aol.com
Summary
Self-administered questionnaires effectively assess functional changes after carpal tunnel surgery. Combining these with specific physical measures offers a comprehensive outcome evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Carpal tunnel surgery outcomes require effective assessment methods.
- Evaluating functional recovery post-surgery is crucial for patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare self-administered questionnaires and physical measures in assessing functional changes after carpal tunnel surgery.
- To determine the most effective methods for outcome assessment in carpal tunnel syndrome patients.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory cohort study involving 29 participants from five hand clinics.
- Utilized self-administered questionnaires: Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (CTQ), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), and Short Form-36.
- Employed physical measures including grip, pinch, range of motion, sensibility, and dexterity.
Main Results:
- Self-administered questionnaires demonstrated sensitivity in detecting functional changes.
- Three out of ten physical measures also indicated changes in patient function.
Conclusions:
- A combination of select physical measures and disease-specific (CTQ) and region-specific (DASH) questionnaires provides a comprehensive assessment.
- This integrated approach captures both objective physical recovery and subjective perceived function.
