The rate and associated risk factors for acute carpal tunnel syndrome complicating a fracture of the distal radius

BACKGROUND: Acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) is a known complication of distal radius fractures. This study aimed to document the demographics, range of presenting symptoms and risk factors of patients who develop ACTS following a fracture of the distal radius. METHODS: A retrospective review of 1189 patients with an acute distal radius fracture treated in the study centre over a one-year period were identified. Demographic and clinical variables were collected and compared between controls (did not develop ACTS) and those patients who did develop ACTS to identify factors associated with developing ACS. RESULTS: There were 51 (4.3%) distal radius fractures complicated by ACTS. The mean age of patients who developed ACTS was 56 years (range, 16–89) and 73% were female. The median time of onset post-injury was one week (range, 1–12). There was no association between patient background and comorbidities with the development of ACTS. AO-OTA Type C fractures had significantly increased rates of developing ACTS. CONCLUSION: Four percent of distal radius fractures were complicated by ACTS. There was no association between patient background and comorbidities with the development of ACTS. AO-OTA type C complete articular fractures had a significantly higher rate of ACTS. A suggested treatment algorithm for patients presenting with ACTS has been presented. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.