Dynamic sonographic measurements at the carpal tunnel inlet: Reliability and reference values in healthy wrists

Introduction: Reliability and reference values are not well-established for most dynamic sonographic measurements of the median nerve (MN) and flexor tendons that may be used for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: Wrists of 20 healthy participants were imaged using ultrasound. Cines of the carpal tunnel inlet were acquired during hand motion. Based on shape and displacement measurements, intra- and interrater reliability and reference values were calculated. Results: Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for measurements of the MN and most flexor tendons were ≥0.51 for shape parameters and ≥0.71 for displacement parameters. During motion, the MN flattened with ulnar movement, tendons became more circular, and flexor tendons of corresponding fingers moved toward each other. Conclusion: Shape and displacement measurements of the MN and most flexor tendons had reliability results ranging from moderate to excellent. The reference values may be useful for the diagnosis of CTS.

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