Intra-carpal injection of ozone versus methylprednisolone in carpal tunnel syndrome of systemic sclerosis patients: A randomized single-blind clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most entrapment syndrome in general and is the most frequent peripheral nervous system involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Local injection of steroid hydrodissection or ozone-oxygen showed favourable outcome in CTS in general. Objectives: To compare the clinical efficacy of ozone versus methylprednisolone intracarpal injection upon pain, functional status, and nerve conduction in patients with CTS due to SSc. Study Design: A randomized single-blinded trial. Setting: Anesthesia, pain, and rheumatology clinics in a university hospital. Methods: Fifty CTS patients with > 3 months duration of SSc were equally randomized into either group O (injection of ozone/oxygen 25 μg/mL in 20 mL) or group M (methylprednisolone acetate 40mg, and 40 mg lidocaine in 20 mL). Visual analog scale (VAS) was measured pre-injection, then re-evaluated post-injection at 4 time points (1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months); Cochin Hand Function Scale (CHFS); and a median nerve electrophysiologic study was done before injection, then by the end of 3 months and 6 months. Results: VAS was significantly lower in group M after 1 week (P = 0.01). Group O showed significantly lower VAS after 3 and 6 month (P < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant decrease in the VAS during the whole study period within each group, in comparison to its baseline value. CHFS was significantly lower in the ozone group after 6 months (P < 0.001). The sixth month’s sensory conduction was significantly higher in group O (P = 0.002). The motor distal latency was significantly lower in the ozone group after 3 and 6 months (P < 0.001). Limitations: Follow-up period could be furtherly extended. Conclusion: Both intracarpal ozone or methylprednisolone afford favorable effects upon CTS in patients with SSc. However, ozone alleviates pain much more, enhances the hand functional status, and improves median nerve conduction in study with over six months duration.