Carpal Tunnel Release Information

There are 3 techniques that can be used to perform a Carpal Tunnel Release.

1. The "mini open" carpal tunnel release technique is a procedure in which a 1-2 cm incision is made over the transverse carpal ligament tofree compression on the median nerve. The ligament is released in its entirety through the small incision, which decreases the morbidity (pain, scarring, etc).

The advantages and disadvantages of the mini open technique vs. the endoscopic technique have been discussed at multiple national meetings and within recent journal articles. At the most recent national symposium, the mini open carpal tunnel release was advocated over the endoscopic technique as it provided the added benefit of assurance of complete release of the transverse carpal ligament and less risk of nerve damage compared to the endoscopic technique.

2. The original carpal tunnel release involved a large 5-6 cm incision across the wrist, which left many patients with severe pain, scaring, and stiffness. Most surgeons do not perform the classic open technique with a large incision.

3. Another technique is to perform the surgery endoscopically using a video camera and several small incisions as well.

There have been some some studies that show higher incidence of recurrence with endoscopic technique. For this reason the surgeons at KSF perform the "mini open" technique to provide the safest and most effective carpal tunnel release.

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