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Carpal Tunnel Release


Carpal Tunnel Release

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release (ECTR) refers to a method of performing carpal tunnel release surgery using an endoscope or an arthroscopic device.

For ECTR or any carpal tunnel release surgery while there are many different blades and techniques the primary goal is to release the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) that overlies and compresses the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. It is this compression on the median nerve that leads to the characteristic ‘pins and needles’ paresthesia in the thumb, index, long and ring fingers. The primary benefit of endoscopic releases versus traditional open carpal tunnel release is often perceived to be the smaller incision size. ECTR incisions are commonly less than 1 cm (0.39 in) compared to a 2–4 in (51–100 mm) longitudinal incision with a traditional carpal tunnel release. However, the incision size is not the only factor that differentiates the two methods. The principle behind the endoscopic release is that the Palmar aponeurosis, a thick tough layer of tissue that lines the palm, is not divided with endoscopic methods. In addition, the endoscopic methods offer less dissection and interruption of tissue planes than the open methods because the endoscopic methods do not divide the subcutaneous tissues or the palmar fascia to the same degree as the open method does. Thus, a more rapid recovery is generally touted with ECTR as the normal skin above the TCL is not incised. Surgery, either open or endoscopic is a way to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.


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