Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pediatric Distal Radius Fractures

Authors: Andrew W Phillips, MD MEd and Emily Niu, MD
Stanford University/Kaiser Emergency Medicine Residency Program and
Stanford University Orthopedics Residency Program

Summary points:

• Acute carpal tunnel syndrome complicates up to 9% of distal radius fractures.
• Large displacement increases the probability of developing acute carpal tunnel syndrome. 
• Early carpal tunnel release is associated with improved outcomes.

The common scenario: An adolescent child crashes bicycle and presents with only L wrist pain. He reports mild numbness of his index finger but full sensation and movement are present on physical exam of the entire left hand. Is it a simple splint and follow up with orthopedics in a few days?

Click to enlarge.

Click to enlarge.