Objective  The most common compressive neuropathy of the upper limbs is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Historically, there has been a tendency to apply immobilization in the postoperative period, a practice that has decreased in recent years. This review aims to assess whether there is scientific evidence to justify the use of immobilization in the postoperative care of CTS decompression. Methods  The following databases were used: Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), PubMed National Library of Medicine - (NLM), Cochrane Library, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and EMBASE. The following inclusion criteria were used: 1) discussion of the postoperative period of median nerve decompression surgery in CTS; 2) comparison of results after surgical decompression in CTS between wrist immobilization or local dressing; 3) all languages, regardless of the year of publication; and 4) all types of publications. The following exclusion criteria were used: 1) studies that did not evaluate the postoperative period of CTS decompression; 2) lack of evaluation of the outcome related to the application of local dressing or some form of wrist immobilization after the surgical decompression procedure; and 3) repeated publications. Results  The literature search resulted in 336 relevant publications. In the end, 18 publications were chosen. Systematic reviews, randomized clinical trials, and cross-sectional studies were found. Conclusions  Due to the scarcity of evidence supporting the use of immobilization coupled with the higher costs associated with the practice, it has become less and less frequent in recent decades. Clinical relevance  In the literature, two approaches to postoperative care for CTS decompression are described: immobilization or just local dressing. According to the available scientific evidence, it is worth evaluating which one is better.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most commonly occurring type of entrapment neuropathy in the world. Several conditions may contribute to the development of CTS, such as obesity, repetitive wrist movements, pregnancy, genetic predisposition and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) inflammation. CTS is characterized by a wide range of pathophysiological factors, including increased pressure, mechanical trauma and ischemic damage to the median nerve that runs through the wrist tunnel. In the present narrative literature review, the way rheumatic diseases (RDs) contribute to CTS occurrence is investigated. The epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical and pathogenesis aspects of the relationship are examined. CTS is the most common neurological finding in RA, and incidences of RA, psoriatic arthritis and CTS are closely related. The association of CTS with systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren\'s syndrome, Behcet\'s disease and systemic sclerosis is weaker. In these cases, the prevalence of CTS is similar to that in the general population. As the occurrence of CTS is increasing, understanding the common mechanism and making an early diagnosis are required to limit pain and costs. When patients with RD present with symptoms such as wrist pain, tingling sensations or numbness in their fingers, CTS should be suspected. This suspicion should not be interpreted in terms of RD. To accurately evaluate patients with RD, a detailed electrophysiological examination should be included in the evaluation process. A diagnostic algorithm should include neuromuscular ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging for patients with RD.

Perilunate dislocation is a rare carpal dislocation, which are predominantly trans-styloid and trans-scaphoid. This type of fracture dislocation is seen due to axial loading of a hyperextended ulnar-deviated wrist. This can result in the disruption of the scapholunate, lunocapitate, and lunotriquetral ligaments. The lunate may dislocate volar or dorsal to the other carpal bones. Herein, we have reported a case of trans-styloid, trans-scaphoid perilunate fracture dislocation with carpal tunnel syndrome, which has never been reported in the literature. A 38-year-old construction worker presented with a swollen hand and signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. The patient was diagnosed with perilunate fracture dislocation after a through clinical and radiological assessment. The scaphoid had invaginated into the radial styloid and demonstrated a comminuted fracture pattern. Volar lunate displacement was identified, and the patient demonstrated signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is not a common presentation. Open reduction with ligament repair was performed to minimize jeopardizing the hand function. Spelt tea cup sign is a diagnostic for perilunate dislocation. Operative exploration and reduction is imperative for failed closed lunate dislocation reduction to minimizes ongoing soft tissue jeopardy. Moreover, carpal tunnel release is indicated in the present of symptomatic carpal tunnel syndrome. To our knowledge, only a few cases of trans-styloid, trans-scaphoid perilunate dislocation with neurological deficit have been reported.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of 5% dextrose (D5W) in comparison to corticosteroids for treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
METHODS: A comprehensive systematic search was conducted across MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials on November 13, 2023. These were supplemented by manual searches using Google Scholar.
METHODS: Two independent authors reviewed the literature, resolving any discrepancies through detailed discussions and consultation with a third author.
METHODS: Data on primary outcomes (pain assessment) and secondary outcomes (symptom severity and functional status using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, electrophysiologic measures, cross-sectional area, and adverse effects) were extracted independently by the 2 authors (M.W. and H.H.).
RESULTS: The analysis included 4 randomized controlled trials and 1 quasi-experimental study, encompassing a total of 212 patients (220 hands) with mild to moderate CTS.
RESULTS: Within 3 months, the D5W injections showed a statistically significant improvement in functional status compared to the corticosteroids with a standard mean difference of -0.34 (95% CI, -0.62 to -0.05). D5W was associated with fewer adverse incidents than corticosteroids (risk ratio, 0.13; 95% CI: 0.03-0.51). No difference was observed between the 2 treatments in other areas.
CONCLUSIONS: For patients with mild to moderate CTS, D5W injections were more effective than corticosteroid injections in improving functional status and demonstrated fewer adverse effects. D5W injections also paralleled corticosteroids in pain reduction, symptom severity, electrodiagnostic measures, and cross-sectional area of nerve, recommending D5W as a preferred treatment for mild to moderate CTS.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel. Patients commonly experience pain, paresthesia, and, less often, weakness in the distribution of the median nerve. Provocative maneuvers, such as the Phalen test and Tinel sign, have varying sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of CTS. Thenar atrophy is a late finding and highly specific for CTS. Although patients with a classic presentation of CTS do not need additional testing for diagnosis, electrodiagnostic studies can confirm the diagnosis in atypical cases, exclude other causes, and gauge severity for surgical prognosis. An abnormal nerve conduction study is useful for ruling in CTS, but a normal test does not necessarily exclude it. Over-the-counter analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen, have not shown benefit for CTS. Patients with mild to moderate CTS initially may be offered nonsurgical treatments, such as splinting or local corticosteroid injections. Night-only splinting is as effective as continuous wear. A neutral wrist splint may be more effective than an extension splint. In patients with recent onset of CTS, corticosteroid injections provide slightly greater improvement of symptoms compared with splinting at 6 weeks, with similar outcomes at 6 months. Patients with severe CTS, including objective weakness or sensory deficits, should be offered surgical decompression. Endoscopic and open carpal tunnel release techniques are equally effective.

UNASSIGNED: Pillar pain is a recognized postoperative complication of carpal tunnel release (CTR). Minimally invasive and alternative surgical techniques can theoretically prevent pillar pain, and the aim of this review was to compare the incidence of pillar pain after standard open CTR and alternative surgical techniques.
UNASSIGNED: MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases were thoroughly searched. Randomized controlled trials comparing minimally invasive surgical techniques to standard open CTR were identified. Data, including surgical technique, number of hands, incidence of pillar pain, and follow-up intervals, were extracted. Odds ratios (OR) were expressed as pillar pain incidence in the intervention group relative to standard open CTR.
UNASSIGNED: There were 12 studies included. No statistically significant differences were noted among endoscopic (OR = 0.53, P = .20), flexor retinaculum lengthening (OR = 1.00, P = 1.00), short incision (OR = 0.41, P = .07) or illuminated knife techniques (OR = 0.18, P = .16). There was a statistically significant decrease in pillar pain after minimally invasive CTR (OR = 0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.20-0.86, I2 = 0%, P = .02) between 3- and 6-months follow-up; however, analyses at all other follow-up periods failed to reach statistical significance.
UNASSIGNED: Although our findings suggest that standard open CTR may be associated with an increased duration of pillar pain between 3 and 6 months postoperatively, our results suggest that minimally invasive CTR techniques do not affect either the initial development or persistence of pillar pain.
UNASSIGNED: Our results illustrate the natural history of pillar pain with the majority of cases resolving after 6 months, highlighting the utility of symptomatic and conservative treatments and patient education in the management of pillar pain.

OBJECTIVE: Using a set of process-of-care quality measures for electrodiagnostic testing in suspected carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the research team previously documented large variations in electrodiagnostic testing practices and adherence to quality measures. This study sought to enhance the applicability and validity of the quality measures by integrating acceptable variations in testing practices.
METHODS: We recruited 13 expert electrodiagnostic medicine specialists from five specialty societies. The experts iteratively refined five quality measures, and then rated the validity of the refined quality measures (1-9 scale). During this process, the experts reviewed data on adherence to existing quality measures and variations in electrodiagnostic testing practices, and considered recently published quality measures from the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
RESULTS: Three quality measures (electrodiagnostic testing before surgery for CTS, temperature assessment during electrodiagnostic testing, and electrodiagnostic criteria for severe median neuropathy) underwent few refinements and were rated valid (medians 8-9). Two measures (essential components of electrodiagnosis, criteria for interpreting electrodiagnostic tests as median neuropathy) were judged valid (medians 8) after revisions. For these measures, experts\' ratings on the recommended components of sensory or mixed nerve conduction studies varied: agreement among the experts about the use of sensory peak latency was greater than for onset latency or sensory velocity.
CONCLUSIONS: This study produced quality measures that provide minimum standards for electrodiagnostic testing for suspected CTS that are more comprehensive and nuanced than prior versions. Future work can assess the feasibility, reliability, and validity of these refined measures in diverse physician practices.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has traditionally been viewed as a specialized medical condition. However, its escalating prevalence among professionals across a multitude of industries has sparked substantial interest in recent years. This review aims to delve into CTS as an occupational disease, focusing on its epidemiological patterns, risk factors, symptoms, and management options, particularly emphasizing its relevance in professional environments. The complex interaction of anatomical, biomechanical, and pathophysiological factors that contribute to the development of CTS in different work settings underlines the critical role of ergonomic measures, prompt clinical identification, and tailored treatment plans in reducing its effects. Nevertheless, the challenges presented by existing research, including diverse methodologies and definitions, highlight the need for more unified protocols to thoroughly understand and tackle this issue. There\'s a pressing demand for more in-depth research into the epidemiology of CTS, its injury mechanisms, and the potential role of targeted medicine. Moreover, recognizing CTS\'s wider ramifications beyond personal health is essential. The economic burden associated with CTS-related healthcare costs, productivity losses, and compensation claims can significantly impact both businesses and the broader society. Therefore, initiatives aimed at preventing CTS through workplace interventions, education, and early intervention programs not only benefit the affected individuals but also contribute to the overall well-being of the workforce and economic productivity. By fostering a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, employers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, we can strive towards creating safer and healthier work environments while effectively managing the challenges posed by CTS in occupational settings.

BACKGROUND: Whether endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) versus open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) has superior outcomes remains a controversial topic. Therefore, we sought to perform an umbrella review and meta-analysis to compare ECTR and OCTR with regards to (1) postoperative functional ability, (2) operative outcomes, and (3) time to return to work.
METHODS: A PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane database search was conducted for all meta-analyses comparing ECTR and OCTR performed between 2000 and 2022 in accordance to PRISMA and Joanna Briggs Institute guidance for umbrella reviews. The primary outcomes were as follows: (1) functional ability-symptoms severity, postoperative grip strength, postoperative pinch strength, 2-point discrimination, and pain; (2) operative outcomes-operation time, total complications, nerve injury, and scar-related complication; and (3) time to return to work. Quality was assessed using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews. Pooled analysis was performed to compare several clinical outcome measures between groups, depending on the availability of data using Review Manager Version 5.2.11.
RESULTS: A total of 9 meta-analyses were included, 5 were of high quality and 4 were moderate quality. For functional ability, ECTR was associated with better pinch strength after 3 months (0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.00, 1.40, P = 0.05) and 6 months (0.77, 95% CI = 0.14, 1.40, P = 0.02, I2 = 84%). For return to work, OCTR was associated with longer return to work compared with ECTR (-10.89, 95% CI = -15.14, -6.64, P < 0.00001, I2= 83%). There were no significant differences between OCTR and ECTR in the hand function, symptom severity, grip strength, pain, operation time, and total complications.
CONCLUSIONS: In an umbrella review and meta-analysis of ECTR versus OCTR, ECTR was associated with a higher pinch strength, and a shorter time to return to work. Differences in major complications, such as nerve injury, were unclear due to statistical inconsistency and bias.

Various injectants are available for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. This systematic review and network meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of different injection therapies in alleviating the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Various databases were searched for relevant studies from inception until May 10, 2023. Eligible studies were identified using the patient (P), intervention (I), comparison (C), and outcomes (O) model, which involved (P) participants with carpal tunnel syndrome, (I) an intervention based on injection therapy, (C) the use of placebo or another injectant as a control treatment, and (O) the measurement of clinical and electrodiagnostic outcomes of interest. A total of 18 studies were included in the analysis. The network meta-analysis revealed that platelet-rich plasma is effective in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome in terms of symptom and pain relief and functional improvement in both the short and long term, whereas steroids are effective only in the short term. Additionally, injections of dextrose solution may offer long-term pain relief as well as short- and long-term symptom alleviation and functional improvement. The study findings suggest that platelet-rich plasma should be used as the first-line treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, with dextrose and steroids serving as alternative treatment options.