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Quantitative Analysis of the Carpal Tunnel and Its Inner Structures in Primates.
Patrícia Rodríguez1, Aroa Casado2,3, Neus Ciurana4
1Unit of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
American Journal of Primatology
|November 20, 2024
Summary
Human carpal tunnel anatomy shows a larger median nerve but smaller tendons compared to primates. These anatomical findings suggest carpal tunnel syndrome causes may lie beyond physical structure.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Primatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is highly prevalent in humans.
- Anatomical variations may contribute to CTS incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate anatomical differences in the carpal tunnel among humans, monkeys, and apes.
- To identify potential anatomical factors predisposing humans to CTS.
Main Methods:
- Quantified carpal tunnel, median nerve, and flexor tendon sizes across species.
- Normalized measurements by wrist and carpal tunnel size.
- Statistical comparison between humans and monkeys.
Main Results:
- Carpal tunnel size was similar across all species.
- Humans exhibited smaller digit flexor tendons and a significantly larger median nerve compared to monkeys.
- Apes also showed a larger median nerve than monkeys.
Conclusions:
- While a larger median nerve in humans might increase vulnerability, smaller tendons and similar nerve proportions in apes suggest anatomy alone doesn't explain CTS.
- Factors beyond anatomical features, possibly functional or personal, likely contribute to human CTS predisposition.
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