The diagnosis of carpal-tunnel syndrome was made clinically in 124 cases
(101 patients) and in each instance it was confirmed by nerve-conduction
studies. Surgery was carried out with a uniform technique. Retrospective
analysis of the series suggests that nerve-conduction studies can be used
as a prognostic factor. Those patients with motor abnormalities appeared to
have a more favorable result than those with only sensory abnormalities.
Neurolysis was found to be a valuable adjunct to the release of the volar
carpal ligament. Preoperative duration of symptoms did not appear to
significantly influence the results of the operation.