This randomized study evaluates the impact of performing a prophylactic carpal tunnel release (CTR) at the same time as surgical fixation for a distal radius fracture (DRF). The study compares this simultaneous approach against a postponed approach (observing and only performing CTR if symptoms develop) to determine which strategy better reduces the frequency of re-operation and improves functional outcomes.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
110
During the internal fixation of the fracture via the Henry approach, the incision is extended distally into the palm. The transverse carpal ligament is incised to decompress the median nerve at the same time the bone is fixed.
Standard operative procedure for the fracture fixation only. Patients are monitored during follow-up; those who subsequently develop median nerve compression symptoms are then prepared for an elective CTR in a separate surgical setting.
Benha University
Banhā, Al Qalyoubia, Egypt
Frequency of Symptomatic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The number of patients who develop symptomatic median nerve compression requiring medical or surgical intervention after the initial fracture correction.
Time frame: From surgery through the completion of fracture healing (4-6 wks)
Postoperative Functional Status of the Upper Extremity.
This tool uses 11 items to measure the degree of difficulty a patient has performing specific physical activities (6 items) and the impact of symptoms like pain and numbness on social activities, work, and sleep (5 items). * Each item is scored on a 5-point Likert scale. * The total score is transformed into a percentage (0-100%), where a higher percentage indicates more severe disability and greater difficulty in daily functioning.
Time frame: 5-10 weeks
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