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Neurological Sciences

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01-09-2019 | Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | Original Article

Outcome after carpal tunnel release: effects of learning curve

Authors: Floriaan G. C. M. De Kleermaeker, Jan Meulstee, Franka Claes, Ronald H. M. A. Bartels, Wim I. M. Verhagen

Published in: Neurological Sciences | Issue 9/2019

Abstract

Introduction

In carpal tunnel release, it is yet unclear whether a learning curve exists among surgeons. The aim of our study was to investigate if outcome after carpal tunnel release is dependent on surgeon’s experience and to get an impression of the learning curve for this procedure.

Methods

A total of 188 CTS patients underwent carpal tunnel release. Patients completed the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire at baseline and 6–8 months postoperatively together with a six-point scale for perceived improvement.

Results

Patients operated by an experienced resident or certified surgeon reported a favorable outcome more often than patients operated by an inexperienced resident (adjusted OR 3.23 and adjusted OR 3.16, respectively). In addition, a negative association was found between surgeon’s years of experience and postoperative Symptom Severity Scale and Functional Status Scale scores.

Discussion

Outcome after carpal tunnel release seems to be dependent on surgical experience, and there is a learning curve in residents.

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Title: Outcome after carpal tunnel release: effects of learning curve
Authors: Floriaan G. C. M. De Kleermaeker
Jan Meulstee
Franka Claes
Ronald H. M. A. Bartels
Wim I. M. Verhagen
Publication date: 01-09-2019
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keywords: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Published in: Neurological Sciences / Issue 9/2019
Print ISSN: 1590-1874
Electronic ISSN: 1590-3478
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-019-03908-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Outcome after carpal tunnel release: effects of learning curve

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

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