O2441 CLINICAL RESULTS AND COMPLICATIONS OF MODIFIED CHOW TECHNIQUE TWO PORTAL ENDOSCOPIC CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE

Abstract

Aims: Carpal tunnel release is one of the most frequently used surgical procedures of hand surgery. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release is a new alternative technique of the standard open transverse carpal ligament release. In this study we present the effectiveness and complications of two-portal endoscopic carpal tunnel release. Methods: Between August 2000 and October 2001, we performed two portal (modiþed Chow technique) endoscopic carpal tunnel release to the 19 hands of 17 patients. Fifteen of these were female, two were male and mean age was 54.6 years (38–62 years). Mean follow up period was 8 months (4–21 months). Clinical evaluation was conþrmed with positive ENMG values. Patients were evaluated with the postoperative pain, numbness, scar sensation, returning to daily activities, and complications. Results: All the patients were satisþed with the relief of pain. They all returned to daily activities within two weeks after the operation. There was no hypersensitive scar formation. Numbness didnñt change at the six patients. In four patients, complication due to 3–4 common digital nerves injury occurred. Two of them explorated and interfascicular nerve repair was performed. Conclusions: Endoscopic carpal tunnel release has become popular because of the minimal perioperative morbidity, short hospitalization, early rehabilitation of the hand, less postoperative pain and less scarring. Our experience is the same agreement with those advantages. But digital nerve complications were more frequent then the open technique. Especially at the learning period the surgeon should have to be more careful for the complications.