ABSTRACT

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic neurological condition involving the limbs that is characterized by severe pain along with sensory, autonomic, motor and trophic impairment. This condition may be induced by surgery, trauma or minor injury. This condition can complicate recovery and impair one’s functional and psychological well-being.

Here, we presented 2 cases as 66 and 52 years old two female patients. They were suffering for 2 years from hypoesthesia and pain on her right hand at the area of median nerve. On neurological examinations, thenar atrophy, positive on tinnel and phallen tests were detected. On EMG, severe carpal tunnel syndrome is detected. Patients were operated under local anesthesia and median nerve was decompressed. 3 days in first patient and 1 week in second after surgery, patients’ hands were swollen and symptoms of pain, hypoesthesia and burning sensation were appeared. We detected prominent edema on their hands starting from the wrist area. They were diagnosed as ‘complex regional pain syndrome’. They were treated with steroid, NSAID, antidepressant and physical therapy. There was no rheumathological pathology. There is amelioration at their symptoms 1 month follow-up. In conclusion; given the complex nature of this syndrome, it is unlikely that targeting a specific mechanism will be effective. As with other chronic disorders, the future of CRPS treatment may lie in combination therapy and studies investigating this will be necessary.