Outcomes After Carpal Tunnel Release in 100 Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the commonest entrapment neuropathy of the upper limb. Open carpal tunnel release (CTR) remains a standard surgical option for patients with persistent or moderate-to-severe disease. Objectives: To evaluate clinical and functional outcomes after open CTR in 100 patients using Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire scores, pain scores, grip strength, complication profile, and patient satisfaction. Methods: This prospective observational study included 100 patients undergoing open CTR between January 2025 and June 2026 at a tertiary care centre. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Outcome measures included Boston Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Functional Status Scale (FSS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, grip strength, complications, and satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Mean SSS improved from 3.78 ± 0.54 preoperatively to 1.34 ± 0.39 at 6 months (p<0.001). Mean FSS improved from 3.41 ± 0.49 to 1.46 ± 0.42 (p<0.001). Mean VAS pain score decreased from 6.7 ± 1.2 to 1.6 ± 0.9 (p<0.001). Grip strength improved from 18.9 ± 5.1 kg preoperatively to 24.5 ± 5.0 kg at 6 months (p<0.001), despite an early decline at 1 month. Good to excellent satisfaction was noted in 88% of patients. Complications were infrequent and minor. Conclusion: Open CTR is a safe and effective procedure with statistically significant improvement in symptoms, function, and pain in the majority of patients.

Keywords: carpal tunnel syndrome; carpal tunnel release; Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire; median nerve; outcome analysis