Mini Open Carpal Tunnel Release(A New Technique with Knife Light System)

Abstract

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome(CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy in the upper extremity and it develops due to unusual pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. In this randomized clinical trial, mini open carpal tunnel release(MOCTR) with knife light is compared with the classic open carpal tunnel(CTR) release technique. Methods: A total of 76 patients who were candidate for carpal tunnel release from September 2005 to April 2009 were divided randomly in two groups. Group I was treated by classic open surgery, while group II was treated by mini open surgery with knife light. Patients were visited at first, second, fourth and eighth weeks post operation. Complications and symptoms including pain(by visual analog scale) were registered. Patients were advised to start daily routines as soon as their pain and symptoms reduced. Results: Statistically, both groups were same regarding sex and age and symptoms were reduced considerably in both groups. Pain and post operative symptoms disappeared earlier in group II and they returned to work sooner than the other group. Complications in two groups were similar. Conclusion: Mini open technique with knife light for carpal tunnel syndrome has certain advantages as compared to classic open surgery with respect to early return to work and daily routines.

Keywords

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome/Surgery
• Median Nerve
• Postoperative Period