[Comparison of endoscopic versus open surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome]

Abstract

Objective: To compare the results of endoscopic surgical decompression of carpal tunnel release (CTR) with open CTR in patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods: Forty patients with CTS were randomly chosen for a prospective study from April 2000 to August 2002. Endoscopic CTR was performed in 23 CTS patients (26 sides) and open CTR was performed in 17 CTS patients (21 sides). Five parameters were evaluated, including each patient's symptom amelioration, complication, operation time, hospitalization time, and the time needed to resume normal lifestyle. The mean follow-up time was 2 years.

Results: No significant difference was observed between the endoscopic CTR group and open CTR group in regard to symptom amelioration, electromyographic testing, and complications. In comparison to open CTR, endoscopic CTR significantly decreased operation time, hospitalization time, and the time needed to resume normal lifestyle and activity (P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Compared with open CTR, endoscopic CTR has the advantage of reduced pain of scar and shortened time of hospitalization and recovery. It is a safe and effective method for treating idiopathic CTS.