O2443 SINGLE VERSUS DOUBLE INCISION TECHNIQUE IN CARPAL TUNNEL DECOMPRESSION. A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Aims: To demonstrate that the double incision technique produces a signiþcant reduction in pillar pain and an earlier return to work. Methods: A randomised controlled trial of twenty-four patients (32 wrists), 18 wrists being allocated to the single incision group (S) and 14 to the double incision group (D), was carried out between 1996 and 1999, after clinical evaluation and complimentary EMG studies. Mean ages were 49.6 (32 to 69) and 45.8 (30 to 54) in the S and D groups respectively. Results: There was a difference in pillar pain in the two groups, being signiþcantly less in the D group (Chi-squared = 8.22) (P = 0.004). There were also differences in the return to work, being much less in Group D Ð Mean = 2.6 weeks (1 to 12) cf. 5.6 weeks (2 to 16). (Willcoxon Rank Sum Test P = 0.0004). There were no differences in the post-operative clinical symptoms (P > 0.05), scar sensitivity (Chi-squared = 1.025) (P = 0.506) or grip strength (P =0.506). The tourniquet time was longer for the double incision technique D = 15.3 minutes (12 to18) cf. S = 12.2 minutes (10 to 18). Conclusions: The Double incision technique is a simple and safe procedure for uncomplicated carpal tunnel syndrome, producing a signiþcant reduction in pillar pain and and earlier post-operative rehabilitation and an earlier return to work.