Choosing the most efficacious scoring method for carpal tunnel syndrome

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the most efficacious hand-specific questionnaire to determine functionality in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Methods: The study included 89 patients who underwent open carpal tunnel release surgery within three years prior to the study. A visual analog scale was used to assess the intensity of pain and paresthesia symptoms. Each participant completed the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ), the quick form of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and the Duruoz Hand Index (DHI). The BCTQ, pain and paresthesia results were assumed as gold standards. Correlations between the MHQ, Quick- DASH, and the DHI were analyzed. A correlation analysis between the variables was tested using Spearman’s rho test or Pearson’s test for variables. Results: The QuickDASH was well correlated with pain, paresthesia and the BCTQ (p 0.001). The questionnaires complied with each other. Conclusion: In addition to its complicated scoring, the MHQ contained detailed subparameters with similar questions and takes a long time to complete. Further studies may confirm the effective usage of the DHI. The easier QuickDASH questionnaire appears to be more practical for carpal tunnel release patients.