Outcome of first-time endoscopic carpal tunnel release in a teaching environment.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to dissect cadaver hands used in the teaching of the Chow endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) technique and determine the adequacy of transverse carpal ligament (TCL) release and any complications.

TYPE OF STUDY: Cadaveric study.

METHODS

ECTR was performed on 573 cadaver hands using either the transbursal Chow technique (n = 147) or the extrabursal Chow technique (n = 426). After dissection, the adequacy of the TCL release and any complications were recorded.

RESULTS

With the transbursal technique, 58% of the specimens had a complete TCL release. Complications were noted in 11 specimens (7%). Using the extrabursal technique, 70% of the specimens had a complete TCL release. Complications were noted in 15 specimens (4%). The difference in complication rates between the transbursal and extrabursal techniques was significant (P <.05) as was the incidence of partial release (P <.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The extrabursal Chow technique is preferred and practice on cadaver specimens is recommended before clinical application.