Identification of the variables relevant to the recovery from post-surgical carpal tunnel syndrome

The purpose of this paper is to determine what variables have been found to predict successful outcome for patients who have undergone carpal tunnel release surgery. In this case, 'successful' is defined as long-term relief of symptoms, pain free functional performance, or return to work. The variables have been divided into three major groups. The first group is the variables that relate to the individual. The second group is those variables that relate to the person's employment. The last group of variables to be discussed are those that relate to society. From this literature review, it appears that there are a significant number of variables that are 'relevant' to the recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery. However, the research conducted thus far has produced few results that identify any consistently reliable 'predictors' of surgical outcome. Future studies will require that a greater degree of reliability and validity be established for these variables. In addition, a clear and consistent definition of success with specific criteria for recovery will be necessary.