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Screening of Axonal Degeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasonography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Published on: January 11, 2019
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Correlating Median Nerve Cross-sectional Area With Nerve Conduction Studies.
Benson J Pulikkottil1, Micah Schub1, Tiffany R Kadow1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Hand and Upper Extremity, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|October 6, 2016
Summary
Ultrasound measurement of median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) correlates with nerve conduction studies (NCS) in carpal tunnel syndrome patients. Further research is needed to determine which diagnostic test best reflects patient symptoms and function.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition characterized by median nerve compression.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on correlating clinical findings with electrodiagnostic tests.
- Ultrasound and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are frequently used diagnostic modalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) measured by ultrasound and NCS parameters in patients with suspected CTS.
- To assess the relationship between CSA and distal motor latency (DML) and distal sensory latency (DSL).
Main Methods:
- Prospective enrollment of patients with clinical CTS symptoms.
- Ultrasound measurement of median nerve CSA at the carpal tunnel inlet.
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS) performed by a blinded electrodiagnostic technician.
- Pearson correlation analysis to compare CSA and NCS findings.
Main Results:
- A moderate positive correlation was observed between median nerve CSA and DML (r=0.57).
- A moderate positive correlation was found between median nerve CSA and DSL (r=0.47).
- A strong positive correlation existed between DML and DSL (r=0.81).
Conclusions:
- Median nerve CSA measured by ultrasound demonstrates a correlation with NCS findings in CTS.
- Additional research is required to ascertain the superior diagnostic utility of ultrasound CSA versus NCS in relation to patient-reported symptoms and functional outcomes.
