Correlation Between the Modified and the Classical Methods in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the modified and the classical methods in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) diagnosis. METHODS: The study included a total of 275 hands of 188 patients. First, the patients with CTS complaints were diagnosed according to the classical and the modified methods. Then, it was investigated whether there was a correlation between these two methods. The correlation agreement analysis between two methods was evaluated with the Kappa test. RESULTS: In present study, it was found that 155 hands were (80 mild + 75 moderate) diagnosed with CTS, and 137 patients were female (85.2%). Moreover, it was detected that the modified method had a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 97% regarding the classical method. In diagnosing moderate CTS, the modified method showed a high sensitivity and specificity (98.6% – 100%, respectively). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: In conclusion, a near-perfect agreement was found between the modified and the classical methods for the diagnosis of CTS.

Keywords

• electromyography
• entrapment neuropathy
• latency
• median nerve
• velocity