Comparison of Turkish and international trends in carpal tunnel surgery

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the nationwide trends in carpal tunnel surgery by surgeons practicing in Turkey according to experience in years, training received (plastic surgery or orthopedics), and working location (Turkey or abroad) by slightly modifying Munns’ survey. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A printed and online survey consisting of 11 questions was sent to Turkish and international surgeons. The surgeon’s province of practice, years in practice, type of education received as a resident, preferred operation room, preferred surgical approach, type of anesthesia used, use of postoperative orthosis and therapy were assessed in the survey. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 198 surgeons (a 25% response rate). The majority of surgeons practicing in Turkey (87%) and 67% of surgeons practicing abroad demanded electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. Sixty- one percent of respondents from Turkey and 76% of respondents practicing abroad did not administer antibiotics preoperatively. While the most common anesthetic technique used by international surgeons was subcutaneous local anesthesia (42%), Turkish surgeons preferred wrist block (18%). Surgeons practicing in Turkey with fewer than five years of experience were more likely to administer antibiotics preoperatively, use EMG/nerve conduction studies, utilize a mini-open approach and apply an orthosis postoperatively (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: There are comparable differences between Turkish and international surgeons regarding pre- and postoperative management of carpal tunnel surgery. Province of practice, years in practice, and type of education received as a resident have influence over the management of carpal tunnel syndrome.