Comparison of morphologic consequences of open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study is to evaluate the carpal canal morphologic consequences following endoscopic carpal tunnel release compared with open approach. Methods 48 Patients with CTS were enrolled in our prospective trial. Participants were classified in 2 groups: 24 patients underwent open surgery technique and 24 underwent endoscopic carpal tunnel decompression. Carpal canal shape and volume, configuration and position of contents, were analyzed by using imaging techniques. Results Preoperative carpal canal volume in endoscopic patient group averaged 5.7 ± 1.4 cc and 7.3 ± 2.9 cc at 6 weeks postoperatively (28% ± 7%, p  = 0.018). In contrast preoperative carpal canal volume in open carpal tunnel release group averaged 4.9 ± 1.1 cc (and increased to 6.2 ± 1.7 cc at 6-week follow up investigation (36% ± 5%, p  = 0.002). Preoperative carpal arch width calculation in endoscopic carpal tunnel release group averaged 21.7 ± 1.1 mm and 21.5 ± 1.9 mm in open carpal tunnel release patients ( p  = 0.6575). Postoperative carpal arch width measurements in endoscopic carpal tunnel decompression group averaged 22.6 ± 4.1 mm and 22.1 ± 2.9 mm in open carpal tunnel release patient population at 6-week follow-up investigation ( p  = 0.628). Conclusion Endoscopic approach causes an increment in carpal canal volume comparable to open technique and provides equivalent anatomic outcomes and will produce at least equivalent long-term clinical relief.