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SUMAARY
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition causing hand pain,
numbness and parathesia. It can be effectively treated by division of the
transverse carpal ligament. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release has the
advantage over open release of reduced tissue trauma, reduce recovery time,
and postoperative morbidity. Open carpal tunnel release has also been shown
to have comparable results, but is easier to perform and more safer, but with
long scar and more recovery time, The purpose of this study was to evaluate
the results of combining both methods to get the benefits and to avoid the
disadvantages of both techniques.
Methods: The study was performed on 25 hands in twenty patients. All of the
patients had clinical signs or symptoms consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome
and had not responded to nonoperative management. Follow-up evaluations at
three, six, twelve, twenty-four, and forty-eight weeks after the surgery.
Complications were identified. The time until return to work was recorded.
Results: In comparison to preoperative status, during the first three months
after surgery, the patients had better Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptom
Severity Scores, better Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Functional Status Scores, and
better subjective satisfaction scores. During the first three months after
surgery, they also had significantly (p < 0.05) greater grip strength, in
comparison to preoperative status. No technical problems were noted.
Conclusion: Good clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction are achieved
more quickly when the endoscopic assisted method of carpal tunnel release is
used. Small transverse wrist incision with the use of endoscope is a safe and
effective method of treating carpal tunnel syndrome. |
