The Direct and Indirect Costs to Society of Carpal Tunnel Release.

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common compressive neuropathies and affects a large amount of individuals. We investigated the direct and indirect cost to society of operative versus nonoperative management of CTS. <b>Methods:</b> A Monte Carlo simulation model was used to estimate the lifetime direct and indirect costs associated with nonoperative and operative treatment of CTS, and its utility to patients. <b>Results:</b> Operative treatment of CTS had a lower total cost and a higher utility when compared with nonoperative treatment. <b>Conclusions:</b> CTS surgery is clearly a cost-effective treatment strategy that should be included in the societal perspective regarding evolving costs and savings associated with health care.