[Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome--surgical therapy--prognostic factors and results]

Patients submitted to bilateral section of the transverse carpal ligament suffer from predisposing diseases, hormonal alterations or have wrists exposed to increased occupational strain more frequently than patients with unilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. In addition, in this group of patients the results of neurophysiological tests are more markedly pathologic. The good initial operative results are frequently followed by a relapse of symptoms. There is no appreciable difference between the operative results for the right versus for the left hand nor between the hand operated on in the first versus in the second place. A long-term improvement of opposite side symptoms following the first operation only occurs in exceptional cases.