A randomized controlled trial of knifelight and open carpal tunnel release.
A randomized controlled trial was done to compare the results of carpal tunnel decompression using the standard open approach and the Knifelight technique. Twenty-six patients with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome requiring operation were selected for the study and the operative technique was randomized for the first hand. Six weeks later, the second hand was operated upon using the alternate technique. There was little difference between the two techniques with regard to time taken to return to work, return of grip strength, symptom relief, complications, incidence of pillar pain and patient preference. However, the incidence of scar tenderness was significantly lower with the Knifelight technique.
Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Middlesbrough General Hospital, Ayresome Green Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 5AZ, UK.
R
R
Bhattacharya
P D
PD
Birdsall
P
P
Finn
J
J
Stothard
D002349:Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / Q000601:surgery*; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008029:Lighting; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D016896:Treatment Outcome