Comparison Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Needle Release Plus Corticosteroid Injection and Mini-Open Surgery in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Abstract

\n Purpose To compare clinical outcomes of ultrasound-guided needle release with corticosteroid injection versus mini-open surgery in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).Methods From January 2020 to December 2020, 40 patients (40 wrists) with CTS were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms, electro-physiological and ultrasound imaging. 20 wrists were treated with ultrasound-guided needle release plus corticosteroid injection (Group A) and other 20 wrists went mini-open surgery (Group B). We evaluated Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire, electrophysiological parameters (distal motor latency, sensory conduction velocity and sensory nerve action potential of median nerve) and ultrasound parameters (cross-sectional area, flattening ratio and the thicknesses of transverse carpal ligament) both before and 3 months after treatment. Total treatment cost, duration of treatment, healing time and complications were also recorded for two groups.Results Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire, electrophysiologic and ultrasound outcomes at preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively had significant difference for each group (each P༜0.05). There were no complications such as infection, haemorrhage, vascular, nerve or tendon injuries in both groups.Conclusion Ultrasound-guided needle release and mini-open surgery are both effective measures in treating CTS patients. Ultrasound-guided needle release plus corticosteroid injection provides smaller incision, less cost, less time of treatment and faster recovery compared with mini-open surgery. Ultrasound-guided needle release plus corticosteroid injection is better for clinical application