Endoscopic versus open surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome

First reported in 1933, carpal tunnel release has become the most frequently performed surgical operation in the United States. Although the initial reports described success with an open surgical technique, morbidity associated with the procedure led to studies investigating endoscopic carpal tunnel release. Proposed advantages of the endoscopic technique include decreased scar formation, the avoidance of an incision directly over the carpal tunnel, an extremely sensitive region in the hand, and earlier return to work. Evidence indicates that when compared with open carpal tunnel release, endoscopic carpal tunnel release results in earlier achievement of patient satisfaction and functional outcomes. As a result, it is clear that endoscopic surgery is a safe and effective method of treating carpal tunnel syndrome.