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Rossmann T, Pruidze P, Veldeman M, Weninger WJ, Grisold W, Chang KV, Meng S. Successful evaluation of a new image-based parameter for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: ultrasound assessment of longitudinal median nerve gliding in patients, healthy volunteers, and cadavers. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2024; 60:671-679. [PMID: 39007786 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.24.08491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced longitudinal median nerve gliding is a new promising diagnostic feature in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, the complexity of existing ultrasound analysis protocols undermines the application in routine clinical practice. AIM To provide a simple method for assessing longitudinal gliding with ultrasound, without the need for post-hoc image analysis. DESIGN 1) Retrospective cohort study, validation by external blinded reviewers; 2) proof of concept in body donors. SETTING 1) Outpatient clinic; 2) anatomy department. POPULATION The population included 48 patients with idiopathic CTS diagnosed by electrodiagnostic testing and ultrasound, as well as 15 healthy controls. Twelve, non-frozen, non-embalmed body donors were enrolled. METHODS Longitudinal gliding of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel was visualized in all patients with idiopathic CTS and healthy controls. All ultrasound videos were pseudonymized, equipped with a scale, and randomized. Videos were analyzed by four independent radiologists, all blinded to clinical characteristics. The endpoint was gliding rated as millimeters. Validity of the technique was tested by using speckle tracking software, and in body donors, directly measuring nerve excursion in situ, simultaneously to ultrasound. RESULTS Gliding differed significantly between controls and patients with CTS, decreasing with incremental CTS severity. A cut-off value of 3.5 mm to identify patients with CTS, yielded 93.8% sensitivity and 93.3% specificity. Intraclass correlation coefficient among senior author and raters was 0.798 (95% CI 0.513 to 0.900, P<0.001), indicating good reliability. Speckle tracking and especially direct validation in body donors correlated well with ultrasound findings. CONCLUSIONS First, longitudinal median nerve gliding can reliably be assessed using this simple technique without the need for complicated procedures. Second, a decrease in gliding was found with progressive severity of CTS. Reproducibility for measured distances is good among raters. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT An easy to apply sonography parameter would bolster the diagnostic ability of specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation in daily routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Rossmann
- Division of Anatomy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Paata Pruidze
- Division of Anatomy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Veldeman
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Wolfgang Grisold
- Neurology Consultancy Unit, Division of Anatomy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ke-Vin Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Bei-Hu Branch, Taipei, Taiwan (ROC)
| | - Stefan Meng
- Division of Anatomy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria -
- Department of Radiology, Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria
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Lee HH, Lynch KJ, Kohls MR, Fowler JR. Localization of the Median Nerve and Flexor Pollicis Longus at the Carpal Tunnel Inlet in Patients With and Without Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasound. Hand (N Y) 2024; 19:387-391. [PMID: 36050935 PMCID: PMC11067854 DOI: 10.1177/15589447221120841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current illustrations of the carpal tunnel vary greatly. The relative positions of the components such as the median nerve and flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendon seem often arbitrarily chosen. The purpose of this study was to determine the locations of the median nerve and FPL in the carpal tunnel using ultrasound (US) and to determine whether the position of the median nerve changes in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). METHOD Patients with and without CTS underwent US examination of the wrist. A 4 × 10 grid was fitted to each saved cross-sectional image. The center points of the median nerve and FPL were identified, and their horizontal and vertical coordinates were recorded. RESULTS The median nerve was identified in 115 wrists (average x = 0.70, y = 0.82), and FPL was identified in 90 wrists (average x = 0.86, y = 0.59). A scatter plot was created by stacking all US images to demonstrate the average positions of the median nerve and FPL. There were 97 wrists without CTS (No CTS) and 17 wrists with CTS. There was a significant difference in the vertical position of the median nerve between No CTS and CTS wrists (P = .0006). CONCLUSIONS The locations of the median nerve and FPL within the carpal tunnel were determined using US of 115 wrists, and a heat map was created to illustrate these locations. The median nerve was found to be more superficial in the setting of CTS.
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Racine G, Holmes MWR, Kociolek AM. Time-varying changes in median nerve deformation and position in response to quantified pinch and grip forces. J Orthop Res 2024; 42:864-872. [PMID: 37975247 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The ability of the median nerve (MN) to adapt in response to altered carpal tunnel conditions is important to mitigate compressive stress on the nerve. We assessed changes in MN deformation and position throughout the entire time course of hand force exertions. Fourteen right-handed participants ramped up force from 0% to 50% of maximal voluntary force (MVF) before ramping force back down in three different hand force exertion tasks (pulp pinch, chuck pinch, power grip). Pinch and grip forces were measured with a digital dynamometer, which were time synchronized with transverse carpal tunnel images obtained via ultrasound. Ultrasound images were extracted in 10% increments between 0% and 50% MVF while ramping force up (loading phase) and down (unloading phase). MN deformation and position relative to the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon of the long finger were assessed in concert. During loading, the nerve became more circular while displacing dorsally and ulnarly. These changes primarily occurred at the beginning of the hand force exertions while ramping force up from 0% to 20%, with very little change between 20% and 50% MVF. Interestingly, deformation and position changes during loading were not completely reversed during unloading while ramping force down. These findings indicate an initial reorganization of carpal tunnel structures. Mirrored changes in nerve deformation and position may also reflect strain-related characteristics of adjoining subsynovial connective tissue. Regardless, time-varying changes in nerve deformation and position appear to be an important accommodative mechanism in the healthy carpal tunnel in response to gripping and pinching tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Racine
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael W R Holmes
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron M Kociolek
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, Ontario, Canada
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Wang MW, Lee WN, Hung CC, Hsieh JH, Chen YH, Ting-Fang Shih T, Wang JH, Yin NH, Wang HK. Validation of the Efficacy of Ultrasound Speckle Tracking in Measuring Tendon Gliding After Finger Flexor Tendon Repair. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:2548-2556. [PMID: 37741741 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Restricted tendon gliding is commonly observed in patients after finger flexor tendon (FFT) repair. The study described here was aimed at quantifying the amount of FFT gliding to evaluate the recovery of post-operative tendons using a 2-D radiofrequency (RF)-based ultrasound speckle tracking algorithm (UST). METHODS Ex vivo uniaxial tensile testing of porcine flexor tendons and in vivo isometric testing of human FFT were implemented to verify the efficacy of UST beforehand. The verified UST was then applied to the patients after FFT repair to compare tendon gliding between affected and healthy sides and to investigate its correlation with the joint range of motion (ROM). RESULTS Excellent validity was confirmed with the average R2 value of 0.98, mean absolute error of 0.15 ± 0.08 mm and mean absolute percentage error of 5.19 ± 2.43% between results from UST and ex vivo testing. The test-retest reliability was verified with good agreement of ICC (0.90). The affected side exhibited less gliding (p = 0.001) and smaller active ROM (p = 0.002) than the healthy side. Meanwhile, a significant correlation between tendon gliding and passive ROM was found only on the healthy side (ρ = 0.711, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION The present study provides a promising protocol to evaluate post-operative tendon recovery by quantifying the amount of FFT gliding with a validated UST. FFT gliding in patients with different levels of ROM restriction should be further explored for categorizing the severity of tendon adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Wei Wang
- School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Center of Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ning Lee
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Medical Engineering Programme, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chih-Chien Hung
- School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Yun-Lin Branch, Yun-Lin, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Hsien Hsieh
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College and Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Hsia Chen
- School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Center of Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tiffany Ting-Fang Shih
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiology, Medical College and Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Horng Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical College and Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Hao Yin
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hsing-Kuo Wang
- School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Center of Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Li ZM, Jordan DB. Carpal tunnel mechanics and its relevance to carpal tunnel syndrome. Hum Mov Sci 2023; 87:103044. [PMID: 36442295 PMCID: PMC9839559 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2022.103044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The carpal tunnel is an elaborate biomechanical structure whose pathomechanics plays an essential role in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. The purpose of this article is to review the movement related biomechanics of the carpal tunnel together with its anatomical and morphological features, and to describe the pathomechanics and pathophysiology associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. Topics of discussion include biomechanics of the median nerve, flexor tendons, subsynovial tissue, transverse carpal ligament, carpal tunnel pressure, and morphological properties, as well as mechanisms for biomechanical improvement and physiological restoration. It is our hope that the biomechanical knowledge of the carpal tunnel will improve the understanding and management of carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zong-Ming Li
- Hand Research Laboratory, Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States of America.
| | - David B Jordan
- Hand Research Laboratory, Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States of America
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Wu Y, Barrere V, Han A, Chang EY, Andre MP, Shah SB. Repeatability, Reproducibility and Sources of Variability in the Assessment of Backscatter Coefficient and Texture Parameters from High-Frequency Ultrasound Acquisitions in Human Median Nerve. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:122-135. [PMID: 36283940 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) is an increasingly prevalent and effective diagnostic modality for neuromuscular imaging. Gray-scale B-mode imaging has been the dominant US approach to evaluating nerves qualitatively or making morphometric measurements of nerves, providing important insights into pathological changes for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Among more recent ultrasound strategies, high-frequency ultrasound (often defined as >15 MHz for clinical applications), quantitative ultrasound and image textural analysis offer promising enhancements for improved and more objective approaches to nerve imaging. In this study, we evaluated the repeatability and reproducibility of backscatter coefficient (BSC) and imaging texture features extracted by gray-level co-occurrence matrices (GLCMs) in homogeneous tissue-mimicking reference phantoms and in median nerves in the wrists of healthy participants. We also investigated several practical sources of variability in the assessment of quantitative parameters, including influences of operators, and participant-to-participant variability. Overall, BSC- and GLCM-based outcomes are highly repeatable and reproducible after operator training, based on measurement of descriptive statistics, repeatability coefficient (RC) and reproducibility coefficient recommended by Quantitative Imaging Biomarker Alliance (QIBA RDC). GLCM parameters appear more reproducible and repeatable than BSC-based parameters in healthy participants in vivo. However, such variability noted here must be compared with the value ranges and variability of the results in pathological nerves, including median nerves afflicted by trauma, overuse syndromes such as carpal tunnel syndrome and after surgical repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanshan Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Victor Barrere
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Aiguo Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Eric Y Chang
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA; Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Michael P Andre
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA; Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sameer B Shah
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA.
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Song K, Wang Y, Yi R, Lakshminarayanan K, Zhang G, Yao Y. The effects of wrist position and radioulnar wrist compression on median nerve longitudinal mobility. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2022; 99:105754. [PMID: 36057239 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2022.105754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carpal tunnel syndrome is an entrapment neuropathy at the wrist characterized by compromised median nerve mobility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of wrist position on median nerve longitudinal mobility in healthy subjects and the effect of radioulnar wrist compression on the median nerve mobility under non-neutral wrist positions. METHODS Dynamic B mode ultrasound images captured longitudinal median nerve motion in the carpal tunnel in 10 healthy subjects at wrist neutral position, 30-degree flexion, and 30-degree extension. In each position, RWC of 0, 5, 10, and 15 N were applied. One-way repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA), Post-hoc Tukey's tests, and the Friedman Test were used to show the significant differences of median nerve longitudinal mobility at different wrist positions and force conditions. FINDINGS Median nerve longitudinal mobility was found to be significantly influenced by wrist position (P < 0.05). The mobility under wrist neutral position was 3.02 mm/s, 38% higher than under wrist flexion (2.18 ± 0.60 mm/s), and 32% higher than under wrist extension (2.29 ± 0.43 mm/s). The impaired median nerve mobility was significantly restored under 10 N radioulnar wrist compression (P < 0.05), by 34.4% under wrist flexion (3.03 ± 0.85 mm/s), and 38.9% under wrist extension (3.07 ± 0.79 mm/s). INTERPRETATION Non-neutral wrist positions compromise median nerve longitudinal mobility, but moderate radioulnar compressive forces are beneficial in the recovery of median nerve longitudinal mobility, and may help to prevent symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kewei Song
- Soft Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory, Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Soft Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory, Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; University of Michigan - Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongxi Yi
- Soft Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory, Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kishor Lakshminarayanan
- Department of Sensors and Biomedical Engineering, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Guoning Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yifei Yao
- Soft Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory, Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Ultrasonographical Evaluation of the Median Nerve Mobility in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12102349. [PMID: 36292039 PMCID: PMC9600711 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12102349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnostic ultrasound is widely used for evaluating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), an entrapment neuropathy of the median nerve (MN). Decreased mobility of the MN inside the carpal tunnel has been reported in CTS, and various methods have been used to evaluate MN mobility; however, there is still no conclusive understanding of its connection with CTS. The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current published literature on ultrasonographic evaluations of transverse and longitudinal MN displacement and to identify the relationship between MN mobility and CTS. This study was conducted in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA statement and the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook. Comparative studies that investigated differences in MN displacement between CTS patients and healthy controls were retrieved by searching the Cochrane Library, Embase and PubMed. A total of 15 case–control studies were included. Nine of 12 studies evaluating transverse MN displacement and 4 of 5 studies evaluating longitudinal MN gliding showed that the MN was less mobile in CTS patients than in healthy subjects. Despite the large heterogeneity among the 15 included studies, this systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence that the mobility of the MN is significantly reduced in both transverse and longitudinal planes in CTS patients compared to healthy controls. Five of the 15 included studies reported that a decrease in transverse or longitudinal MN displacement in CTS was correlated with clinical symptoms or with severity as measured by a nerve conduction study (NCS).
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Automated Segmentation of Median Nerve in Dynamic Sonography Using Deep Learning: Evaluation of Model Performance. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11101893. [PMID: 34679591 PMCID: PMC8534332 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an emerging trend to employ dynamic sonography in the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathy, which exhibits aberrant spatiotemporal characteristics of the entrapped nerve when adjacent tissues move. However, the manual tracking of the entrapped nerve in consecutive images demands tons of human labors and impedes its popularity clinically. Here we evaluated the performance of automated median nerve segmentation in dynamic sonography using a variety of deep learning models pretrained with ImageNet, including DeepLabV3+, U-Net, FPN, and Mask-R-CNN. Dynamic ultrasound images of the median nerve at across wrist level were acquired from 52 subjects diagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome when they moved their fingers. The videos of 16 subjects exhibiting diverse appearance and that of the remaining 36 subjects were used for model test and training, respectively. The centroid, circularity, perimeter, and cross section area of the median nerve in individual frame were automatically determined from the inferred nerve. The model performance was evaluated by the score of intersection over union (IoU) between the annotated and model-predicted data. We found that both DeepLabV3+ and Mask R-CNN predicted median nerve the best with averaged IOU scores close to 0.83, which indicates the feasibility of automated median nerve segmentation in dynamic sonography using deep learning.
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Hosseini-Farid M, Schrier VJMM, Starlinger J, Amadio PC. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment and the Subsequent Alterations in Median Nerve Transverse Mobility. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2021; 40:1555-1568. [PMID: 33073880 PMCID: PMC8053734 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The mobility (transverse movement) of the median nerve (MN) is decreased in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and can be measured noninvasively by ultrasound. To date, there are few prognostic features to help predict the outcome of 2 commonly performed treatments: surgical carpal tunnel release and corticosteroid injection. This study aimed to assess the changes in nerve mobility after the intervention and to correlate this with treatment and the disease severity. METHODS A total of 181 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome with different electrophysiologic severities were recruited and assessed by dynamic ultrasound scanning of the MN before and after treatment. The dynamic ultrasound images were collected while the patients performed finger and wrist flexion. RESULTS For both injection and carpal tunnel release, the nerve displacement increased with wrist flexion, from a mean ± SD of 7.0 ± 2.4 to 7.9 ± 2.7 mm (P < .005). Patients who underwent surgery showed greater improvement (P < .005) in nerve mobility compared to those who underwent injection. We also observed that the increase in nerve mobility was predominantly in patients with more nerve damage at baseline. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that the dynamic behavior of the MN changes in response to treatment and lays a foundation for future studies to assess the prognostic potential of nerve mobility measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hosseini-Farid
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- College of Computing and Engineering, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Verena J M M Schrier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Julia Starlinger
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Hosseini-Farid M, Schrier VJMM, Starlinger J, Zhao C, Amadio PC. Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment and the subsequent alterations in tendon and connective tissue dynamics. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2021; 88:105440. [PMID: 34329857 PMCID: PMC8490321 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2021.105440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carpal tunnel syndrome patients demonstrate diminished motion of the median nerve and fibrotic changes in the subsynovial connective tissue within the carpal tunnel. Currently, there are few prognostic factors to help predict the outcome of commonly performed treatments including surgical carpal tunnel release and corticosteroid injections. This study aimed to non-invasively assess the changes in the dynamic response of the subsynovial tissue relative to tendon motion after the intervention and to correlate this with disease severity. METHODS A total of 145 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were recruited into this study. Clinical and demographic data, electrophysiological severity and dynamic ultrasound images were collected before and after treatment, either by injection or surgery. The relative motion of the subsynovial tissue with the underlying middle finger flexor digitorum superficialis tendon was measured using a speckle tracking algorithm and was expressed as a shear index (SI). Baseline and follow-up data, the association between change in SI and severity, and the role of treatment modality were analyzed and statistically compared. FINDINGS Overall, there was a significant increase (more relative motion) after treatment in the mean shear index from 79.9% (±15.4% SD) to 82.9% (±14.8% SD) (p = 0.03). Secondary analyses showed that this change was mostly present in those with mild disease severity undergoing surgery (p = 0.01). INTERPRETATION This study shows that the relative subsynovial tissue movement increases in patients after intervention. The present study lays a foundation for future studies to non-invasively assess the role of carpal tunnel dynamics in response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hosseini-Farid
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States; College of Computing and Engineering, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
| | - Verena J M M Schrier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Julia Starlinger
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States; Medical University Vienna, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Vienna, Austria
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
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Liu CT, Liu DH, Chen CJ, Wang YW, Wu PS, Horng YS. Effects of wrist extension on median nerve and flexor tendon excursions in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: a case control study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:477. [PMID: 34030693 PMCID: PMC8146623 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Reduced gliding ability of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel has been observed in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the gliding abilities of the median nerve and flexor tendon in patients with CTS and healthy participants in the neutral and 30° extended positions of the wrist and to compare the gliding between the finger flexion and extension phases. Methods Patients with CTS and healthy participants were consecutively recruited in a community hospital. All the subjects received the Boston CTS questionnaire, physical examinations, nerve conduction study (NCS), and ultrasonography of the upper extremities. Duplex Doppler ultrasonography was performed to evaluate the gliding abilities of the median nerve and flexor tendon when the subjects continuously moved their index finger in the neutral and 30° extension positions of the wrist. Results Forty-nine patients with CTS and 48 healthy volunteers were consecutively recruited. Significant differences in the Boston CTS questionnaire, physical examination and NCS results and the cross-sectional area of the median nerve were found between the patients and the healthy controls. The degree of median nerve gliding and the ratio of median nerve excursion to flexor tendon excursion in the CTS group were significantly lower than those in the healthy control group in both the neutral and 30° wrist extension positions. Significantly increased excursion of both the median nerve and flexor tendon from the neutral to the extended positions were found in the CTS group. The ratio of median nerve excursion to flexor tendon excursion was significantly higher in the finger flexion phase than in the extended phase in both groups, and this ratio had mild to moderate correlations with answers on the Boston CTS Questionnaire and with the NCS results. Conclusions Reduced excursion of the median nerve was found in the patients with CTS. The ratio of median nerve excursion to flexor tendon excursion was significantly lower in the patients with CTS than in the healthy volunteers. The median nerve excursion was increased while the wrist joint was extended to 30° in the patients with CTS. Wrist extension may be applied as part of the gliding exercise regimen for patients with CTS to improve median nerve mobilization. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04349-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Ting Liu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, No.289, Jianguo Rd., Xindian Dist., New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Dung-Huan Liu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Doctoral Degree Program of Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan
| | - Chii-Jen Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Technology, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - You-Wei Wang
- Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Sheng Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, No.289, Jianguo Rd., Xindian Dist., New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shiung Horng
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, No.289, Jianguo Rd., Xindian Dist., New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan. .,Department of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.
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13
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Turcotte KE, Kociolek AM. Median nerve travel and deformation in the transverse carpal tunnel increases with chuck grip force and deviated wrist position. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11038. [PMID: 33777528 PMCID: PMC7983861 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We assessed median nerve travel and deformation concurrently to better understand the influence of occupational risk factors on carpal tunnel dynamics, including forceful chuck gripping and deviated wrist positions. Methods Fourteen healthy right-hand dominant participants performed a chuck grip in 6 experimental conditions: two relative force levels (10% and 40% of maximum voluntary effort); three wrist positions (15° radial deviation, 0° neutral, 30° ulnar deviation). Chuck grip forces were measured with a load cell while the transverse cross-section of the carpal tunnel was imaged via ultrasound at the distal wrist crease. Images of the median nerve were analyzed in ImageJ to assess cross-sectional area, circularity, width, and height as well as travel in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral axes. Results We found a main effect of deviated wrist position on both anterior-posterior and medial-lateral travel, with the greatest nerve travel occurring in 30° ulnar deviation. There was also a significant interaction between chuck grip force and deviated wrist position on cross-sectional area. Specifically, the area decreased with 40% vs. 10% chuck grip force when the wrist was in 30° ulnar deviation; however, there were no changes in 0° neutral and 15° radial deviation. Discussion Overall, we demonstrated that forceful chuck gripping in deviated wrist positions influenced carpal tunnel dynamics, resulting in both migratory and morphological changes to the median nerve. These changes may, in turn, increase local strain and stress with adjacent structures in the carpal tunnel. Future studies mapping contact stress between structures may further elucidate injury development of work-related carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylyn E Turcotte
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron M Kociolek
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Lee CH, Lin YT, Wu CT, Lin CH, Chen SH, Hsu CC. Sonoelastography in the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Values Compared With the Normative Population. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 86:S299-S311. [PMID: 33443882 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sonoelastography (SEL) is widely used for assessing tissue stiffness and pathophysiology. It has also been used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, the current criteria to diagnose CTS in SEL are diverse. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature and assess the diagnostic value of SEL for CTS. METHODS A literature review was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library for primary research articles using the keywords sonoelastography and carpal tunnel syndrome. Data related to diagnostic and cutoff value were extracted. Bias assessment was performed. RESULTS A total of 121 publications were reviewed. Nineteen primary case series met the inclusion criteria and were selected for full analysis. Different diagnostic approaches were identified, with units/expressions including kilopascals, conduct velocity, and strain ratio. The kilopascals and conduct velocity were measured using shear wave elastography, whereas strain ratio was calculated by relative compression quantification. A mean shear modulus cutoff value from 38.25 to 86 kPa and an acoustic radiation force impulse cutoff value of 3.0 to 3.23 m/s were used to diagnose CTS. Eight articles reported strain ratio between the median nerve and nearby tissues with diverse results due to different reference points. The other 3 additional diagnostic values were reported. CONCLUSIONS Sonoelastography is a useful noninvasive and promising modality to diagnose CTS. It may reflect both the condition of soft tissue scarring and quantitative values for CTS and median nerve stiffness. A diversity of examination values was found in different modalities. A high level of evidence was absent.
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15
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Tulipan JE, Kachooei AR, Shearin J, Braun Y, Wang ML, Rivlin M. Ultrasound Evaluation for Incomplete Carpal Tunnel Release. Hand (N Y) 2020; 15:780-784. [PMID: 30857423 PMCID: PMC7850243 DOI: 10.1177/1558944719832040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background: Ultrasound can provide evaluation of the anatomy of the carpal tunnel in a convenient, noninvasive office setting. This study is intended to determine the accuracy and diagnostic performance of ultrasound, used by surgeons, for the evaluation of completeness of carpal tunnel release (CTR). Methods: Ten cadaver arms underwent randomized sectioning of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of the transverse carpal ligament. Following a brief training session, a blinded observer used ultrasound to evaluate the percentage of the transverse carpal ligament release. The release amount was then confirmed with an open exposure of the transverse carpal ligament. Results: Cronbach α and Pearson correlation coefficients were 0.92 and 0.87, demonstrating excellent reliability and validity of the technique. Diagnostic performance including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value was 100%, 75%, 86%, and 100%, respectively, for the diagnosis of incomplete release of the transverse carpal ligament by a novice sonographer orthopedic surgeon. Conclusions: The ultrasound is a highly accurate tool for the diagnosis of incomplete transverse carpal ligament release and requires a minimal amount of training to use for this purpose. It provides a rapid means of diagnosing incomplete release of the transverse carpal ligament following CTR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amir Reza Kachooei
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | | | | | - Mark L. Wang
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael Rivlin
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Michael Rivlin, Department of Hand and Orthopedic Surgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, 925 Chestnut Street, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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16
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Schrier VJMM, Evers S, Geske JR, Kremers WK, Villarraga HR, Selles RW, Hovius SER, Gelfman R, Amadio PC. Relative Motion of the Connective Tissue in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The Relation with Disease Severity and Clinical Outcome. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:2236-2244. [PMID: 32600671 PMCID: PMC7429249 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Excursion of the median nerve and the surrounding subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) is diminished in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This study sought to determine if SSCT excursion could be utilized to predict surgical outcome. Idiopathic CTS patients were reviewed with ultrasound and electrodiagnostic tests at baseline. A speckle tracking algorithm was used to determine SSCT relative to tendon motion (shear index). Analysis of variance tests were used to compare SSCT motion with disease severity at baseline. Adjusted linear regressions were used to test the association with patient-reported outcome. A total of 90 CTS patients were analyzed and found to have an average shear index of 79% (95% confidence interval: 76.3%-81.6%). SSCT motion was lower in CTS patients with increasing electrophysiological severity (p = 0.0475). There was no significant association of pre-operative SSCT motion with symptomatic improvement (p = 0.268). Overall, SSCT motion is decreased in CTS patients, but exhibits limited correlation with clinical severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefanie Evers
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer R Geske
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Walter K Kremers
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Hector R Villarraga
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ruud W Selles
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven E R Hovius
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Radboudumc University Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Russell Gelfman
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
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17
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Schrier VJMM, Brault JS, Amadio PC. Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection With Corticosteroid Injection in the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2020; 39:1759-1768. [PMID: 32255205 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Corticosteroid injections can provide (temporary) relief in patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Hydrodissection as part of an injection has been associated with positive clinical outcomes but data for CTS so far has been scarce. This study is designed to assess patient tolerance and secondarily provide pilot data on the added effect of hydrodissection. METHODS Twenty CTS patients were randomized to an ultrasound-guided betamethasone injection with hydrodissection (5 mL) or without (2 mL). Patient tolerance was assessed directly after intervention and patient-reported outcome after 4 and 24 weeks. Intra-group data were compared using Wilcoxon Signed Rank and inter-group with Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. RESULTS Tolerance and pain scores did not differ between the two groups. Symptom scores decreased in both groups, but to a lesser extent in the hydrodissection group with a mean difference of -0.8 versus -1.5 in the control group at 4 weeks (P = .02). At 6 months, this difference was no longer present (P = .81). No statistically significant differences were found between the hydrodissection and control groups in the function or pain scores at follow-up at either time point. CONCLUSION After injection, both symptomatic and functional scores improved, but the hydrodissected group did not show additional improvement. Data presented can be used to support larger studies to assess the value of hydrodissection in CTS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey S Brault
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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18
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Yao Y, Grandy E, Evans PJ, Seitz WH, Li ZM. Location-dependent change of median nerve mobility in the carpal tunnel of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Muscle Nerve 2020; 62:522-527. [PMID: 32644200 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to investigate in vivo median nerve longitudinal mobility in different segments of the carpal tunnel associated with active finger motion in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients in a comparison with healthy controls. METHODS Eleven healthy volunteers and 11 CTS patients participated in this study. Dynamic ultrasound images captured location-dependent longitudinal median nerve mobility within the carpal tunnel during finger flexion at the metacarpophalangeal joints using a speckle cross-correlation algorithm. RESULTS Median nerve longitudinal mobility in the carpal tunnel was significantly smaller in CTS patients (0.0037 ± 0.0011 mm/degree) compared with controls (0.0082 ± 0.0026 mm/degree) (P < .05), especially in the proximal (0.0064 vs 0.0132 mm/degree on average) and middle (0.0033 vs 0.0074 mm/degree on average) carpal tunnel sections. DISCUSSION Median nerve mobility can potentially serve as a biomechanical marker when diagnosing CTS, or when assessing the effectiveness of surgical and conservative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Yao
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Emily Grandy
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Peter J Evans
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - William H Seitz
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Zong-Ming Li
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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19
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Byra M, Hentzen E, Du J, Andre M, Chang EY, Shah S. Assessing the Performance of Morphologic and Echogenic Features in Median Nerve Ultrasound for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2020; 39:1165-1174. [PMID: 31868248 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the feasibility of using ultrasound (US) image features related to the median nerve echogenicity and shape for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) diagnosis. METHODS In 31 participants (21 healthy participants and 10 patients with CTS), US images were collected with a 30-MHz transducer from median nerves at the wrist crease in 2 configurations: a neutral position and with wrist extension. Various morphologic features, including the cross-sectional area (CSA), were calculated to assess the nerve shape. Carpal tunnel syndrome commonly results in loss of visualization of the nerve fascicular pattern on US images. To assess this phenomenon, we developed a nerve-tissue contrast index (NTI) method. The NTI is a ratio of average brightness levels of surrounding tissue and the median nerve, both calculated on the basis of a US image. The area under the curve (AUC) from a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and t test were used to assess the usefulness of the features for differentiation of patients with CTS from control participants. RESULTS We obtained significant differences in the CSA and NTI parameters between the patients with CTS and control participants (P < .01), with the corresponding highest AUC values equal to 0.885 and 0.938, respectively. For the remaining investigated morphologic features, the AUC values were less than 0.685, and the differences in means between the patients and control participants were not statistically significant (P > .10). The wrist configuration had no impact on differences in average parameter values (P > .09). CONCLUSIONS Patients with CTS can be differentiated from healthy individuals on the basis of the median nerve CSA and echogenicity. Carpal tunnel syndrome is not manifested in a change of the median nerve shape that could be related to circularity or contour variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Byra
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Ultrasound, Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Eric Hentzen
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jiang Du
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Michael Andre
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Eric Y Chang
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sameer Shah
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
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20
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Schrier VJMM, Vrieze A, Amadio PC. Subsynovial connective tissue development in the rabbit carpal tunnel. Vet Med Sci 2020; 6:1025-1033. [PMID: 32378336 PMCID: PMC7738720 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The carpal tunnel contains the digital flexor tendons and the median nerve, which are embedded in a unique network of fibrovascular interconnected subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT). Fibrous hypertrophy of the SSCT and subsequent adaptations in mechanical response are found in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), but not much is known about the development of the SSCT. This observational study describes the morphological development of SSCT using histology and ultramicroscopy in an animal model at four time points between late‐term fetuses through adulthood. A transition is seen between 3 days and 6 weeks post‐partum from a dense solid SSCT matrix to a complex multilayered structure connected with collagenous fibrils. These preliminary data show a developmental pattern that matches an adaptive response of the SSCT to loading and motion. Understanding the anatomical development aids in recognizing the pathophysiology of CTS and supports research on new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alyssa Vrieze
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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21
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Chang KV, Wu WT, Özçakar L. Ultrasound imaging and guidance in peripheral nerve entrapment: hydrodissection highlighted. Pain Manag 2020; 10:97-106. [DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2019-0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) imaging has become one of the most useful modalities to assess peripheral nerve disorders. Nowadays, it is as important as nerve conduction studies and electromyography for peripheral nerve entrapment. Additionally, US is also helpful in guiding a possible intervention. As peripheral nerves are tiny, palpation-guided injections are really challenging for precisely targeting the nerves. By using US, perineural injections have significantly become safe and effective. Recently, US-guided hydrodissection has emerged as the mainstream for nerve entrapment. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize and update the mechanism and evidence regarding this imperative procedure for neuropathic pain management. Furthermore, the pathogenesis, anatomic features, US findings and histological correlations of nerve entrapment syndromes will also be discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Vin Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Bei-Hu Branch, Taipei, 10845, Taiwan
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ting Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Bei-Hu Branch, Taipei, 10845, Taiwan
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Levent Özçakar
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, 06532, Turkey
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22
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Comparative Effects of Tensioning and Sliding Neural Mobilization on Static Postural Control and Lower Limb Hop Testing in Football Players. J Sport Rehabil 2019; 28:840-846. [PMID: 30222495 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2017-0374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Sliding and tensioning neural mobilization are used to restore normal function of the nervous system, but they impose different stresses on it. Particularly, sliding induces greater nerve excursion than tensioning. Conceivably, they might impact nervous system function differently. OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of tensioning neural mobilization versus sliding neural mobilization of the dominant lower limb on static postural control and hop testing. DESIGN Randomized, parallel and double blinded trial. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Thirty-seven football players. INTERVENTION(S) Participants were randomized into 2 groups: sliding neural mobilization (n = 18) or tensioning neural mobilization (n = 19) targeting the tibial nerve. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Static postural sway was assessed with a force plate and functional performance with hop tests. Measurements were taken at baseline, after the intervention, and at 30-minute follow-up. RESULTS There was a significant effect of time for the center of pressure total displacement and velocity (P < .05), for the single-leg hop test (P < .05), the 6-m timed hop test (P < .05), and the cross-over hop test (P < .05), but no significant effect of the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Sliding and tensioning neural mobilization improved postural control and hop testing in football players, and improvements remained 30 minutes after the intervention. Additional research examining the influence of neural mobilization on sensory motor impairments, postural control, and functional performance is needed.
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Schrier VJMM, Evers S, Geske JR, Kremers WK, Villarraga HR, Kakar S, Selles RW, Hovius SER, Gelfman R, Amadio PC. Median Nerve Transverse Mobility and Outcome after Carpal Tunnel Release. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2019; 45:2887-2897. [PMID: 31488311 PMCID: PMC6768738 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.06.422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Nerve movement is decreased in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and can be assessed with ultrasound. In addition to morphologic features, this study describes a novel approach in which nerve movement and the association with short-term patient-reported outcome are assessed. Ultrasound images at the carpal tunnel inlet were acquired during finger and wrist flexion. Linear regression models were used with the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire as main outcome. Eighty-five patients were included; 93% completed the 3-mo follow-up. Pre-surgical mean nerve area was 14.5 ± 4.2 mm2 and decreased to 13.3 ± 3.8 mm2 (p < 0.001). Displacement in dorsal direction with wrist flexion increased from 1.9 ± 1.3 to 2.4 ± 1.3 mm (p < 0.01). A pre-surgical larger nerve area was associated with more functional improvement (β = -0.024, p = 0.02), but baseline mobility was not. Change in excursion with finger flexion was associated with symptomatic improvement, but with a small effect (β = -0.05, p = 0.01). This indicates that there is limited prognostic potential for dynamic transverse ultrasound in carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefanie Evers
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer R Geske
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Walter K Kremers
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Hector R Villarraga
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sanjeev Kakar
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ruud W Selles
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven E R Hovius
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Radboudumc University Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Russell Gelfman
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
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24
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Yao Y, Grandy E, Jenkins L, Hou J, Evans PJ, Seitz WH, Li ZM. Changes of median nerve conduction, cross-sectional area and mobility by radioulnar wrist compression intervention in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. J Orthop Translat 2019; 18:13-19. [PMID: 31508303 PMCID: PMC6718919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Owing to the compressive nature of the neuropathy, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) have prolonged distal motor latency (DML), sensory nerve latency (SNL), median nerve swelling and restricted median nerve mobility. The purpose of this study was to noninvasively augment carpal tunnel space using radioulnar wrist compression (RWC) and evaluate its effects on median nerve pathological properties in patients with CTS. It was hypothesized that the RWC intervention would reduce the median nerve DML, SNL and cross-sectional area (CSA) and enhance longitudinal median nerve mobility in patients. with CTS. METHODS Eleven patients diagnosed with CTS participated in this study. A portable RWC intervention splint was developed to apply 10 N of compressive force across the wrist. Three daily sessions of RWC were performed over 4 weeks of intervention (15 min per session, 45 min per day, 7 days per week). Each 15-min session consisted of three 5-min blocks of RWC, with a 1-min rest in between consecutive blocks. Patients were evaluated at Week 0 (baseline), Week 2 (mid-intervention) and Week 4 (end of intervention). DML and SNL of the median nerve were evaluated using established nerve conduction study techniques. Median nerve CSA at the distal wrist crease was obtained by ultrasound imaging. Median nerve motion associated with finger flexion/extension was captured by dynamic ultrasound imaging and quantified using a speckle cross-correlation algorithm. Finger flexion/extension was recorded using an electrogoniometer. The slope of the regressed linear equation of median nerve displacement as a function of finger flexion angle was used to quantify nerve mobility. RESULTS Patients with CTS showed significantly decreased DML (p = 0.048) and median nerve CSA (p < 0.001) and increased nerve mobility (p < 0.001) at mid-intervention compared to baseline. However, DML, CSA and mobility of the median nerve did not differ significantly between Weeks 2 and 4 (p = 0.574, 1.00 and 0.139, respectively). Median nerve SNL was not significantly affected throughout the 4-week intervention (p = 0.330 for Week 0 vs. 2; p = 1.00 for Week 2 vs. 4). CONCLUSION This study revealed that RWC intervention with 10-N force applied to the wrist in the radioulnar direction could restore impaired neurophysiological and biomechanical functions of the median nerve. The beneficial effects of RWC intervention for the median nerve were in evidence after a relatively short period of two weeks. These functional improvements could be explained by intermittent decompression of the median nerve via RWC-induced augmentation of the carpal arch. THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE Biomechanically manipulating the carpal tunnel by RWC decompresses the median nerve and has the potential to become an alternative treatment for CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Yao
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Emily Grandy
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lenicia Jenkins
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Juliet Hou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peter J. Evans
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - William H. Seitz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Zong-Ming Li
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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25
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Schrier VJMM, Evers S, Bosch JG, Selles RW, Amadio PC. Reliability of ultrasound speckle tracking with singular value decomposition for quantifying displacement in the carpal tunnel. J Biomech 2019; 85:141-147. [PMID: 30691987 PMCID: PMC6389416 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2019.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Inhibited movement patterns of carpal tunnel structures have been found in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients. Motion analysis on ultrasound images allows us to non-invasively study the (relative) movement of carpal tunnel structures and recently a speckle tracking method using singular value decomposition (SVD) has been proposed to optimize this tracking. This study aims to assess the reliability of longitudinal speckle tracking with SVD in both healthy volunteers and patients with CTS. Images from sixteen healthy volunteers and twenty-two CTS patients were used. Ultrasound clips of the third superficial flexor tendon and surrounding subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) were acquired during finger flexion-extension. A custom made tracking algorithm was used for the analysis. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated using a single measure, two-way random model with absolute agreement and Bland-Altman plots were added for graphical representation. ICC values varied between 0.73 and 0.95 in the control group and 0.66-0.98 in the CTS patients, with the majority of the results classified as good to excellent. Tendon tracking showed higher reliability values compared to the SSCT, but values between the control and CTS groups were comparable. Speckle tracking with SVD can reliably be used to analyze longitudinal movement of anatomical structures with different sizes and compositions within the context of the carpal tunnel in both a healthy as well as a pathological state. Based on these results, this technique also holds relevant potential for areas where ultrasound based dynamic imaging requires quantification of motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stefanie Evers
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johan G Bosch
- Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruud W Selles
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
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Wu YT, Chen SR, Li TY, Ho TY, Shen YP, Tsai CK, Chen LC. Nerve hydrodissection for carpal tunnel syndrome: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Muscle Nerve 2018; 59:174-180. [PMID: 30339737 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study we explored the efficacy of nerve hydrodissection for mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). METHODS Thirty-four participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. One 5-ml dose of normal saline was injected into the intracarpal and subcutaneous regions in subjects of both groups, respectively. The primary outcome measure was the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) score. Secondary outcomes were cross-sectional area of the median nerve and electrophysiological studies. Assessments were performed before the injection and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months postintervention. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement at the second and third posttreatment months according to BCTQ severity score and at all time-points for cross-sectional area of the median nerve (P < 0.01). DISCUSSION Our study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of nerve hydrodissection for mild-to-moderate CTS. Muscle Nerve 59:174-180, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Tsan Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan, 11490, Republic of China.,Integrated Pain Management Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Si-Ru Chen
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Tsung-Ying Li
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan, 11490, Republic of China.,Integrated Pain Management Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Tsung-Yen Ho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan, 11490, Republic of China
| | - Yu-Ping Shen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan, 11490, Republic of China
| | - Chia-Kuang Tsai
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Graduate Institute of Medical Science, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Liang-Cheng Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan, 11490, Republic of China
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27
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Yao Y, Grandy E, Evans PJ, Seitz WH, Li ZM. Enhancement in median nerve mobility during radioulnar wrist compression in carpal tunnel syndrome patients. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2018; 60:83-88. [PMID: 30336369 PMCID: PMC6252106 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2018.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression neuropathy at the wrist associated with compromised median nerve mobility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of radioulnar wrist compression on median nerve longitudinal mobility within the carpal tunnel in carpal tunnel syndrome patients as well as healthy subjects. METHODS Dynamic ultrasound images captured longitudinal median nerve motion in the carpal tunnel during radioulnar wrist compression force application in 11 healthy subjects and 11 carpal tunnel syndrome patients. FINDINGS We found that median nerve mobility was not significantly affected by radioulnar wrist compression in healthy subjects (P = 0.34), but improved by 10 N radioulnar wrist compression in carpal tunnel syndrome patients (P < 0.05). Analysis of segmental median nerve mobility in carpal tunnel syndrome patients showed significantly improved mobility in the proximal tunnel section under 10 N radioulnar wrist compression force condition compared to the no compression condition (P < 0.05). INTERPRETATION Moderate radioulnar wrist compression force application helps restore impaired median nerve mobility and may be effective in improve nerve function and symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Yao
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Emily Grandy
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peter J Evans
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, and Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - William H Seitz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, and Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Zong-Ming Li
- Hand Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, and Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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28
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Ellis R, Rohan M, Fox J, Hitt J, Langevin H, Henry S. Ultrasound Elastographic Measurement of Sciatic Nerve Displacement and Shear Strain During Active and Passive Knee Extension. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:2091-2103. [PMID: 29430675 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is current need for objective measures of sciatic nerve mobility in patients with sciatic-type pain. The objective of the study was to assess the feasibility and reliability of ultrasound elastography to quantify sciatic nerve displacement and shear strain at the sciatic nerve-hamstring muscle interface during active and passive knee extension-flexion exercises performed while sitting in healthy people. Ultrasound elastography showed excellent intrarater within-session reliability for assessing sciatic nerve displacement and sciatic nerve-hamstring muscle interface shear strain during active knee extension-flexion exercises. These findings will inform similar future work conducted in patients with sciatic-type pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ellis
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland, New Zealand
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Maheswaran Rohan
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences , Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - James Fox
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Juvena Hitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Helene Langevin
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sharon Henry
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, University of Vermont College of Nursing and Health Science, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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29
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Paquette P, El Khamlichi Y, Lamontagne M, Higgins J, Gagnon DH. Comparison of longitudinal excursion of a nerve-phantom model using quantitative ultrasound imaging and motion analysis system methods: A convergent validity study. ULTRASOUND : JOURNAL OF THE BRITISH MEDICAL ULTRASOUND SOCIETY 2018; 25:143-149. [PMID: 29410689 DOI: 10.1177/1742271x17700452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Quantitative ultrasound imaging is gaining popularity in research and clinical settings to measure the neuromechanical properties of the peripheral nerves such as their capability to glide in response to body segment movement. Increasing evidence suggests that impaired median nerve longitudinal excursion is associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. To date, psychometric properties of longitudinal nerve excursion measurements using quantitative ultrasound imaging have not been extensively investigated. Methods This study investigates the convergent validity of the longitudinal nerve excursion by comparing measures obtained using quantitative ultrasound imaging with those determined with a motion analysis system. A 38-cm long rigid nerve-phantom model was used to assess the longitudinal excursion in a laboratory environment. The nerve-phantom model, immersed in a 20-cm deep container filled with a gelatin-based solution, was moved 20 times using a linear forward and backward motion. Three light-emitting diodes were used to record nerve-phantom excursion with a motion analysis system, while a 5-cm linear transducer allowed simultaneous recording via ultrasound imaging. Results Both measurement techniques yielded excellent association (r = 0.99) and agreement (mean absolute difference between methods = 0.85 mm; mean relative difference between methods = 7.48 %). Small discrepancies were largely found when larger excursions (i.e. > 10 mm) were performed, revealing slight underestimation of the excursion by the ultrasound imaging analysis software. Conclusion Quantitative ultrasound imaging is an accurate method to assess the longitudinal excursion of an in vitro nerve-phantom model and appears relevant for future research protocols investigating the neuromechanical properties of the peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Paquette
- Pathokinesiology Laboratory, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal - Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Youssef El Khamlichi
- Pathokinesiology Laboratory, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal - Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Martin Lamontagne
- Pathokinesiology Laboratory, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal - Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Johanne Higgins
- Pathokinesiology Laboratory, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal - Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dany H Gagnon
- Pathokinesiology Laboratory, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal - Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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30
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Kubo K, Zhou B, Cheng YS, Yang TH, Qiang B, An KN, Moran SL, Amadio PC, Zhang X, Zhao C. Ultrasound elastography for carpal tunnel pressure measurement: A cadaveric validation study. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:477-483. [PMID: 28731271 PMCID: PMC5905701 DOI: 10.1002/jor.23658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Carpal tunnel pressure is a key factor in the etiology of carpal tunnel syndrome. Numerous approaches have been conducted to measure carpal tunnel pressure. However, most techniques are invasive and take time and effort. We have developed an innovative approach to noninvasively assess the tunnel pressure by using the ultrasound surface wave elastography (USWE) technique. In a previous study it was shown that the shear wave speed in a tendon increased linearly with increasing tunnel pressure enclosed the tendon in a simple tendon model. This study aimed to examine the relationship between the carpal tunnel pressure and the shear wave speeds inside and outside the carpal tunnel in a human cadaveric model. The result showed that the shear wave speed inside the carpal tunnel increased linearly with created carpal tunnel pressure, while the shear wave speed outside the carpal tunnel remained constant. These findings suggest that noninvasive measurement of carpal tunnel pressure is possible by measuring the shear wave speed in the tendon. After fully establishing this technology and being applicable in clinic, it would be useful in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. For that reason, further validation with this technique in both healthy controls and patients with carpal tunnel syndrome is required. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:477-483, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoshi Kubo
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Boran Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Yu-Shiuan Cheng
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Tai-Hua Yang
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Bo Qiang
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kai-Nan An
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Steven L. Moran
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Xiaoming Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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31
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Deng X, Chau LHP, Chiu SY, Leung KP, Li SW, Ip WY. Exploratory use of ultrasound to determine whether demyelination following carpal tunnel syndrome co-exists with axonal degeneration. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:317-323. [PMID: 29557383 PMCID: PMC5879905 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.226402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) accompanied by secondary axonal degeneration cannot be clearly discriminated using the current cross-validated ultrasound severity classification system. This study aimed at exploring cut-off values of ultrasound parameters, including wrist cross-sectional area (W-CSA), wrist perimeter (W-P), ratio of cross-sectional area (R-CSA) and perimeter (R-P), changes of CSA and P from wrist to one third distal forearm (ΔCSA&ΔP) for differentiation. Seventy-three patients (13 male and 60 female) were assigned into group A (demyelination only, n = 40) and group B (demyelination with secondary axonal degeneration, n = 33) based on the outcomes of nerve conduction studies (NCS). Receiver Operative Characteristics (ROC) curves were plotted to obtain sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of cut-off values for all the ultrasound parameters. The overall identified cut-off values (W-CSA 12.0 mm2, W-P 16.27 mm, R-CSA 1.85, R-P 1.48, ΔCSA 6.98 mm2, ΔP 5.77 mm) had good sensitivity (77.1–88.6%), fair specificity (40–62.2%) and fair-to-good accuracy (0.676–0.758). There were also significant differences in demographics (age and severity gradation, P < 0.001), NCS findings (wrist motor latency and conduction velocity, P < 0.0001; wrist motor amplitude, P < 0.05; distal sensory latency, P < 0.05; sensory amplitude, P < 0.001) and ultrasound measurements (W-CSA, W-P, R-CSA, R-P, ΔCSA&ΔP, P < 0.05) between groups. These findings suggest that ultrasound can be potentially used to differentiate demyelinating CTS with secondary axonal degeneration and provide better treatment guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Deng
- Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Lai-Heung Phoebe Chau
- Clinical Electro-diagnostic Unit, Tung Wah Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Suk-Yee Chiu
- Clinical Electro-diagnostic Unit, Tung Wah Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Kwok-Pui Leung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Sheung-Wai Li
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Wing-Yuk Ip
- Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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32
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Evers S, Thoreson AR, Smith J, Zhao C, Geske JR, Amadio PC. Ultrasound-guided hydrodissection decreases gliding resistance of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. Muscle Nerve 2018; 57:25-32. [PMID: 28622409 PMCID: PMC5722677 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to assess alterations in median nerve (MN) biomechanics within the carpal tunnel resulting from ultrasound-guided hydrodissection in a cadaveric model. METHODS Twelve fresh frozen human cadaver hands were used. MN gliding resistance was measured at baseline and posthydrodissection, by pulling the nerve proximally and then returning it to the origin. Six specimens were treated with hydrodissection, and 6 were used as controls. RESULTS In the hydrodissection group there was a significant reduction in mean peak gliding resistance of 92.9 ± 34.8 mN between baseline and immediately posthydrodissection (21.4% ± 10.5%; P = 0.001). No significant reduction between baseline and the second cycle occurred in the control group: 9.6 ± 29.8 mN (0.4% ± 5.3%; P = 0.467). DISCUSSION Hydrodissection can decrease the gliding resistance of the MN within the carpal tunnel, at least in wrists unaffected by carpal tunnel syndrome. A clinical trial of hydrodissection seems justified. Muscle Nerve 57: 25-32, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Evers
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand surgery, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andrew R. Thoreson
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Jay Smith
- Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Radiology and Anatomy, Mayo clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Jennifer R. Geske
- Department of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Peter C. Amadio
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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33
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Wegscheider H, Volk GF, Guntinas-Lichius O, Moriggl B. High-resolution ultrasonography of the normal extratemporal facial nerve. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2017; 275:293-299. [DOI: 10.1007/s00405-017-4797-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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34
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Festen-Schrier VJMM, Amadio PC. The biomechanics of subsynovial connective tissue in health and its role in carpal tunnel syndrome. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 38:232-239. [PMID: 29108853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common surgically treated problem in the hand. Aside from the neuropathy itself, the most common findings are fibrosis of the subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) and increased intra carpal tunnel pressure. Normally, the SSCT is a multilayer tissue interspersed among the carpal tendons and nerve. As the tendons move, successive SSCT layers are recruited, forming a gliding unit and providing a limit to differential movement. Exceeding this limit, damages the SSCT as has been shown in both cadavers and animal models. This damage leads to a non-inflammatory response with progressive fibrosis and nerve ischemia leaving the SSCT more susceptible to injury. Although the direct consequences for patients are not fully understood, ultrasound research shows that this fibrosis restricts median nerve displacement during tendon loading. This article aims to provide insights into the mechanical properties of SSCT described so far and place it in the context of CTS pathophysiology. A theoretical damage model concerning the SSCT is proposed showing a chain of events and vicious cycles that could lead to the nerve compression as it is found in CTS. Although not complete, this model could explain the pathophysiological pathway of idiopathic CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- V J M M Festen-Schrier
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus MC, The Netherlands.
| | - P C Amadio
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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35
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Evers S, Bryan AJ, Sanders TL, Selles RW, Gelfman R, Amadio PC. Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Compared to Blind Steroid Injections in the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2017; 69:1060-1065. [PMID: 27696773 DOI: 10.1002/acr.23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided injections to blind injections in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in a large community-based cohort. METHODS This study evaluated residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, treated with a corticosteroid injection for CTS between 2001 and 2010. The proportion of patients receiving retreatment and the duration of retreatment-free survival between blind and ultrasound-guided injections were compared. Propensity score matching was used to control for confounding by indication. RESULTS In the matched data set consisting of 234 (of 600) hands treated with a blind injection and 87 (of 89) ultrasound-guided injection cases, ultrasound guidance was associated with a reduced hazard of retreatment (hazard ratio 0.59 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.37-0.93]). In addition, ultrasound guidance was associated with 55% reduced odds of retreatment within 1 year compared to blind injections (adjusted odds ratio 0.45 [95% CI 0.24-0.83]). CONCLUSION This study indicates that ultrasound-guided injections are more effective in comparison to blind injections in the treatment of CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Evers
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, and Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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36
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Cowley JC, Leonardis J, Lipps DB, Gates DH. The influence of wrist posture, grip type, and grip force on median nerve shape and cross-sectional area. Clin Anat 2017; 30:470-478. [PMID: 28281294 DOI: 10.1002/ca.22871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During grasping, the median nerve undergoes mechanical stress in the carpal tunnel which may contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. This study investigated the effects of wrist posture, grip type, and grip force on the shape and cross-sectional area of the median nerve. Ultrasound examination was used to obtain cross-sectional images of the dominant wrist of 16 healthy subjects (8 male) at the proximal carpal tunnel during grasping. The cross-sectional area, circularity, and axis lengths of the median nerve were assessed in 27 different conditions (3 postures × 3 grip types × 3 force levels). There were no significant changes in median nerve cross-sectional area (P > 0.05). There were significant interactions across posture, grip type, and grip force affecting nerve circularity and axis lengths. When the wrist was flexed, increasing grip force caused the median nerve to shorten in the mediolateral direction and lengthen in the anteroposterior direction (P < 0.04), becoming more circular. These effects were significant during four finger pinch grip and chuck grip (P < 0.05) but not key grip (P > 0.07). With the wrist extended, the nerve became more flattened (less circular) as grip force increased during four finger pinch grip and chuck grip (P < 0.04) but not key grip (P > 0.3). Circularity was lower during the four finger pinch compared to chuck or key grip (P < 0.03). The findings suggest that grip type and wrist posture significantly alter the shape of the median nerve. Clin. Anat. 30:470-478, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey C Cowley
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joshua Leonardis
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - David B Lipps
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Deanna H Gates
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Jester AAM. Ultrasonography for diagnosis and follow-up of carpal tunnel syndrome in mucopolysaccharidosis. Dev Med Child Neurol 2016; 58:1104. [PMID: 27189664 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea A M Jester
- Birmingham Children's Hospital - Hand and Upper Limb Service, Plastic Surgery, Birmingham, UK
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