Accuracy of Quick-DASH tool versus CTS-6 tool in evaluating the outcome of carpal tunnel release

Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most frequent and well-known form of median nerve entrapment and accounts for 90% of all entrapment neuropathies. The outcomes of CTS release surgery are usually evaluated with patient-reported outcome measures. To compare the accuracy of Quick-DASH versus CTS-6 evaluation tools in assessing the outcome of surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Methods We conducted a study involving 60 cases undergoing carpal tunnel release at our institute to consider the accuracy of QUICK-DASH and CTS-6 evaluation tools. The results were assessed by self-administering questionnaires filled by patients on 3 different occasions: pre-operatively, 1 month, and 6 months post-operatively. The accuracy of QUICK-DASH and CTS-6 assessment tools was analyzed independently using the dependent t -test and Wilcoxon matched pairs test. Results A positive correlation was found between the mean change in both Quick-DASH and CTS-6 scoring systems. However, CTS-6 showed higher responsiveness to changes from baseline to 1 month and 6 months respectively compared to Quick-DASH. Conclusions Quick-DASH and the CTS-6 evaluation tools both are highly responsive to change after surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome and reflect the clinical improvement in terms of disabilities and symptoms respectively. The higher responsiveness to CTS-6 could be attributed to the fact that the CTS-6 is a disease-specific measure of symptoms, whereas the Quick-DASH is a region-specific measure of function. Our study provides additional support for CTS-6 given accessing treatment outcomes, as it is easier and less time-consuming to adapt. Level of evidence: Not gradable