Factors affecting carpal tunnel syndrome severity: A regression analysis

Abstract

Aim: To establish links between carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) severity and several key factors, including the age and gender of patients, which side was affected, the existence of other health conditions, outcomes from diagnostic evaluations, and measurements of wrist diameter.

Methods: This retrospective study analyzed medical records of patients who underwent CTS surgery, focusing on age, gender, affected side, comorbidities, diagnostic tests, and wrist diameter to assess CTS severity.

Results: This study included 75 patients diagnosed with CTS, with an average age of 52.9±11.8 years, comprising 28 males (37%) and 47 females (63%). Symptoms were predominantly on the right side (72%, 54 patients), followed by the left side (22.67%, 17 patients) and bilateral cases (5.33%, 4 patients). Occupation-wise, housewives were the majority (38.67%, 29 patients). Comorbidities were present in 61.3% (46 patients) of patients. Phallen's test and Tinnel's sign were positive in 88% (66 patients) and 77.3% (58 patients) respectively. The mean wrist diameter was 19.8±1.72 cm. No mild cases were reported, with 38.7% (29 patients) moderate and 61.3% (46 patients) severe. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the affected side, diabetes, menopause, rheumatological diseases, and wrist diameter over 21 cm were significant predictors of CTS severity.

Conclusions: This study highlights that a wrist diameter greater than 21 cm is a significant predictor of CTS severity.