Ultrasonographic Assessment of Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area in Obstetricians

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to investigate whether the median nerve cross-sectional area (MNCSA) is affected in obstetricians due to occupational reasons
METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 93 participants were included. The median nerve cross-sectional area was measured by high-resolution ultrasonography, and clinical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome were questioned.
RESULTS: The measurements of MNCSA for the right hand were higher in ≥ 8 years of working experience than in < 8 years of working experience (11mm2 vs. 8 mm2, p<0.001). A significant positive moderate correlation was also between right MNCSA and working experience and daily ultrasonography practice (r=0.557; p<0.001, r=0.561; p<0.001, respectively).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study showed that increased MNCSA was associated with obstetricians’ working experience and daily ultrasonography practice. Considering the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome in specific occupational groups, MNCSA measurement by ultrasound may contribute to early diagnosis and convenient selection for further diagnostic tests.