A study compared surgery and splinting for subjects suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. It was found that among 73 patients treated with surgery, there was a 92% success rate. Among 83 patients treated with splints, there was a 72% success rate. Calculations using those results showed that if there really is no difference in success rates between surgery and splints, then there is about 1 chance in 1000 of getting success rates like the ones obtained in this study.

a. Should we conclude that surgery is better than splints for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome?

b. Does the result have statistical significance? Why or why not?

c. Does the result have practical significance?

d. Should surgery be the recommended treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Form a conclusion about statistical significance. Do not make any formal calculations. Either use results provided or make subjective judgments about the results.