ENDOSCOPIC VS OPEN CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE

Introduction A randomised, double blind controlled study of the short term results of single portal endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) versus open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) is presented. Methods Twenty patients undergoing bilateral carpal tunnel release were inducted into the study. Each patient had one side performed as an ECTR and the other as an OCTR. The side that ECTR was performed on was randomised. Assessment was performed at one, two and six weeks post-operatively by the patient and a blinded hand therapist. The patient was blinded at the one week review. Assessment looked at pain, function and satisfaction, as well as objective strength and motion. Results All patients prefered the side of the endoscopic release at one, two and six weeks. ECTR was associated with less pain, greater ease of use, improved strength and better motion. Conclusions There is a significantly improved short term outcome, on both subjective and objective measures, with endoscopic carpal tunnel release compared to open carpal tunnel release.