[Surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome: a comparison between long and short incision and endoscopic release]

Abstract

The results of open carpal tunnel release employing a short incision (2.5 cm) were compared with those following a long incision (4.5 cm) in a prospective randomized study. These results were then compared with those found by Agee et al. (1992), following endoscopic carpal tunnel release. The criteria examined included grip strength as well as key and pulp pinch strength, sensory function and scar tenderness. Subjective symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and nocturnal paraesthesia were specifically inquired into, and time off work was noted. The examinations took place pre-operatively, as well as one, two, three, and six weeks postoperatively. The endoscopic method demonstrated no advantages when compared to the short incision. The long incision led to a temporary 10% loss of strength only during the first three weeks. These results should be kept in mind in the light of occasionally severe neurovascular complications following endoscopic carpal tunnel release.