Persistent Median Artery and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Retrospective Study

Objective  This study presents a retrospective study of persistent median artery associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods  A retrospective study of the persistent median artery and CTS. Exclusion criteria were patients who did not present persistent median artery, those who were diabetic, or had rheumatoid diseases, and those who decided not to do the surgery. Only 25 patients were eligible for this retrospective study. Results  Median artery thrombosis had statistical differences considering the variables sex ( p  = 0.009), electroneuromyography findings ( p  = 0.021), profession ( p  = 0.066), and "total duration since the beginning of the symptoms" ( p  = 0.055). Thenar muscle atrophy had no statistical differences when compared to the variables. Bifid median nerve had statistical differences when compared to provocative tests ( p  = 0.013), frequency of symptoms ( p  = 0.001), and age ( p  = 0.028). Conclusion  Although uncommon, the persistent median artery should be considered a differential diagnosis for CTS. Ultrasonography is a reliable method to predict carpal tunnel anatomy. Late onset and symptoms could influence artery thrombosis and worsen the symptoms.