ID 184 – Effect of carpal tunnel syndrome on the ulnar nerve at the wrist: Electrophysiologic and ultrasonographic studies

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study is to compare the ulnar nerve by electrophysiologic and ultrasonographic study between patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and controls. We also compare the cross sectional area (CSA) of ulnar nerve before and after carpal tunnel release in CTS. Methods We recruited 41 hands with CTS and 37 hands of controls. Electrophysiologic study of ulnar nerve was done in all participants. CSA of median and ulnar nerve at the wrist was evaluated by ultrasonography. Fifteen hands with CTS who underwent carpal tunnel release were evaluated with ultrasound after the operation. Results The ulnar nerve CSA of the patients of CTS (5.16 ± 1.04) was statistically significant larger than control (3.56 ± 0.52). After transverse carpal ligament release operation, the CSA of ulnar nerve after operation (4.20 ± 0.84) was statistically significant smaller compared with that of prior to surgery (5.23 ± 1.02). The CSA of median nerve was significant correlation with the CSA of ulnar nerve. Conclusions CSA of ulnar nerve as well as medan nerve increased in patients with CTS. Ulnar nerve is affected by carpal tunnel syndrome.