USE OF SILICONE SHEATH IN TREATMENT OF RECURRENT CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Abstract

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition with a prevalence of 2.7% based on symptoms, clinical signs, and neurophysiology. The procedure to cure these patients, whether it is open or endoscopic, is usually successful in returning sensation, abolishing numbness and paraesthesiae, and improving manual dexterity. However, as many as 14%–32% of patients may have persistent symptoms

The general treatment of patients with recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome is re-exploration of the median nerve and neurolysis. Various procedures have been described to cover the median nerve with muscle or fat tissue. These include–external neurolysis, local muscle flaps, fat grafts and flaps, vein wrapping and synovial flaps. The outcome of secondary carpal tunnel surgery is only fair and many procedures are possible.

In 19 patients presenting with recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome over a period of five years, silicone sheath was used to cover the median nerve following neurolysis. All of these 19 cases were performed by the senior author (ASR).

We audited the results of this procedure using the carpal tunnel outcome instrument (Levine et al., 1993) for subjective assessment and grip strength, thumb key pinch force and two point discrimination sensation for Objective assessment. 17 patients were followed up for the purpose of this study. 2 were lost to follow up. Twelve patients were satisfied with their outcomes and were prepared to undergo the surgery again or recommend it to others (more than 70%). However, two were dissatisfied and three were uncertain of their feelings.