title: Carpal tunnel release. A prospective, randomised study of endoscopic versus limited-open methods.
abstract: Endoscopic carpal tunnel release has the advantage over open release of reduced tissue trauma and postoperative morbidity. Limited open carpal tunnel release has also been shown to have comparable results, but is easier to perform and is safer. We have compared the results of both techniques in a prospective, randomised trial. Thirty patients with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome had simultaneous bilateral release. The technique of release was randomly allocated to either two-portal endoscopic release (ECTR) or limited open release using the Strickland instrumentation (LOCTR). The results showed that the outcome was similar at follow-up of one year using both techniques. However, the LOCTR group had significantly less tenderness of the scar at the second and fourth postoperative week (p < 0.01). There was also less thenar and hypothenar (pillar) pain after LOCTR. Subjective evaluation showed a preference for LOCTR.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
authors.forename: K C
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: L K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Hung
authors.forename: P C
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: Ho
authors.forename: J M W
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Wong
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002349:Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome