Clinical study of surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome: Open versus endoscopic technique.

Twenty-six patients (30 hands) who underwent endoscopic carpal tunnel release were physically examined and asked to complete questionnaires on their symptoms, functional limitations and satisfaction. Their mean grip strength improved considerably from 17.5 kg before the operation to 31.3 kg at the final follow-up. Symptoms at the final follow-up were hypesthesia in 9 hands, muscle atrophy in 10, positive Tinel sign in 3, and positive Phalen sign in 1. The mean symptom severity score improved from 3.01 before the operation to 1.44 at the final follow-up and the mean functional status score improved from 3.20 to 1.54. The average times to return to activities of daily living and work were 7.3 days and 18.4 days respectively. Twenty-two of the 26 patients (85%) were satisfied. There was no injury to neurovascular structures. Arterial injuries were prevented by marking the superficial palmar arch and ulnar artery with a Doppler ultrasonic hemodrometer before surgery.