[Endoscopic carpal tunnel release: a comparative study to the conventional open technique]

Abstract

Objective: The endoscopic carpal tunnel release became a minimally invasive alternative to the standard open technique, because of its theoretical benefits for reducing the postoperative morbidity. The present study goals to compare both techniques about the immediate results of such procedures.

Method: Two groups of 15 patients underwent, respectively, to the endoscopic and conventional carpal tunnel release surgery. There was no statistical difference between both groups about the preoperative clinical aspects.

Results: In all of the cases there were complete resolution of the preoperative symptoms immediately after the procedures. One patient from the endoscopic technique group developed recidive of the symptoms one month after the surgery (6.6%). The oral analgesics intake time and the labor returning time was shorter in the group underwent to the endoscopic procedure.

Conclusion: The endoscopic carpal tunnel release is an efficient procedure, offering the advantage to shortening the postoperative recovery.