Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of Current Literature

Acute carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive median nerve compression leading to loss of two-point discrimination. Most cases encountered are in the emergency department following wrist trauma and distal radius fractures. Although rare, atraumatic etiologies have been reported and diligent evaluation of these patients should be performed. If missed or neglected, irreversible damage to the median nerve may result. Once diagnosed, emergent carpal tunnel release should be performed. If performed in a timely manner outcomes are excellent, often with complete recovery.