The acute carpal tunnel syndrome

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurology
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Acute carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a rare but serious complication following wrist trauma.
• Wrist fractures and distal radius bone grafting can precipitate CTS due to increased carpal canal pressure.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing irreversible nerve damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report cases of acute carpal tunnel syndrome following wrist trauma.
• To evaluate the timing and outcomes of surgical intervention for post-traumatic CTS.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing and managing this condition.

Main Methods:

• Case series involving five patients with acute CTS.
• Neurological examinations performed post-trauma.
• Carpal tunnel release surgery performed within 36-96 hours in four patients.
• Intraoperative carpal canal pressure measurements in one patient.

Main Results:

• Four patients developed acute CTS after wrist fractures; one after a distal radius bone graft.
• Initial neurological examinations were normal in all patients.
• Only one patient experienced early return of nerve function.
• Surgical carpal tunnel release was performed between 36 and 96 hours post-injury.
• Carpal canal pressures were measured pre- and post-release in one case.

Conclusions:

• Acute carpal tunnel syndrome is a potential complication of wrist fractures and related surgeries.
• Delayed nerve recovery suggests the need for timely surgical decompression.
• Carpal tunnel release should be considered in cases of acute CTS following wrist trauma to preserve nerve function.