Histo-mechanical aspects of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a result of median nerve compression within the carpal canal. Factors associated with the appearance of carpal tunnel syndrome can be related to the bony architecture of the carpal canal, to its contents and to systemic disease. The purpose of this work is to see if changes in the elasticity of the transverse carpal ligament may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Value of concomitant sympathectomy in aortoiliac reconstruction. Results of a prospective, randomized study

The efficacy of concomitant lumbar sympathectomy in improving results of aortoiliac reconstruction was assessed by a prospective, randomized study of 51 patients undergoing operation for occlusive or aneurysmal disease. Sympathectomy was performed on 50 limbs, while 52 extremities served as controls. Sympathectomy resulted in a significant reduction in foot vascular resistance determined by plethysmography. However, the procedure had no effect on leg circulation, assessed by ankle/arm pressure indices determined by Doppler ultrasound. In the sympathectomy group, there were three early postoperative amputations for ischemia, despite patent grafts. In the control group, there was one late graft occlusion, caused by progressive atherosclerotic disease. Although sympathectomy may improve pedal circulation, the procedure does not appear to improve the results of aortoiliac reconstruction.