Comparative Analysis of Median Nerve Parameters for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Diagnosis: Ultrasound Versus Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

Combined Military Hospital Kohat Pakistan

Status: Not yet enrolling

Conditions: Nerve Conduction; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS); Ultrasound

Treatments: Diagnostic Test: Nerve Conduction Study

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06926777

E-2005/A/114

Details and patient eligibility

About

Comparative Analysis of Median Nerve Parameters for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Diagnosis: Ultrasound vs. Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) This clinical study aims to determine whether ultrasound can be as practical as NCS in diagnosing CTS. It will also evaluate the accuracy of different median nerve measurements in both tests.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

Can ultrasound accurately detect CTS compared to NCS? Which median nerve measurements (such as size, speed, or function) are most useful for diagnosis? Researchers will compare ultrasound and NCS results in patients with CTS symptoms to determine which test is more reliable and patient-friendly.

Participants will:

1. Undergo both an ultrasound and a NCS for comparison.
2. Visit the clinic for testing and evaluation as part of the study.
3. Provide information about their symptoms and medical history related to CTS. This study aims to improve diagnosis accuracy and explore whether ultrasound could be a more comfortable and quicker alternative to NCS for detecting CTS.

Full description

This study aims to compare ultrasound and NCS for diagnosing CTS by analyzing key median nerve parameters in both tests. CTS is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure appropriate treatment.

Currently, NCS is considered the standard test for CTS diagnosis, measuring nerve function by assessing conduction velocity and latency. However, ultrasound has emerged as a potential alternative by providing structural imaging of the median nerve, including parameters like cross-sectional area (CSA), echogenicity, and flattening ratio.

The primary objective of this study is to determine whether ultrasound can be a reliable, non-invasive, and patient-friendly alternative to NCS for CTS diagnosis. By comparing nerve measurements obtained from both methods, researchers aim to evaluate their diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.

Participants with suspected CTS will undergo both ultrasound and NCS for comparison. Data will be analyzed to determine which test provides the most precise and clinically useful information. The findings of this study may help refine diagnostic protocols, potentially reducing the need for NCS in certain cases and offering a faster, more comfortable option for patients.

Enrollment: 50 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18+ years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

1. Adults aged 18 years or older.
2. Patients with clinical symptoms of CTS, including numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hand.
3. Positive findings on clinical examination, such as Tinel's sign, Phalen's test, or Durkan's test.
4. Willingness to undergo both ultrasound and NCS for diagnostic evaluation.

Exclusion criteria

1. Previous surgery for CTS in the affected hand.
2. History of peripheral neuropathy such as diabetic neuropathy
3. Other neuromuscular disorders affecting the upper limb such as cervical radiculopathy.
4. Pregnant women.
5. Severe comorbid conditions that may interfere with study participation.
6. Inability to provide informed consent.

Trial design

Primary purpose: Diagnostic

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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50 participants in 2 patient groups

Ultrasound Diagnostic Arm

Other group

Description:

Participants in this arm will undergo ultrasound imaging of the median nerve at the wrist. Measurements such as CSA and flattening ratio will be recorded. The goal is to evaluate ultrasound's effectiveness in diagnosing CTS compared to NCS.

Treatment:

Diagnostic Test: Nerve Conduction Study

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) Group (Diagnostic Arm)

Other group

Description:

Participants in this arm will undergo an NCS to assess median nerve function. Parameters such as nerve conduction velocity, latency, and amplitude will be recorded. NCS findings will serve as the gold standard for comparison with ultrasound results.

Treatment:

Diagnostic Test: Nerve Conduction Study