The purpose of this study was to compare the
outcome and complications of endoscopic versus open
release for the treatment of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Patients
with this condition were randomised to undergo either endoscopic (n
= 27) or open release (n = 25). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain
and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores were measured
at 12 and 24 weeks after surgery. Scar satisfaction was measured
using a VAS scale. The mean pain and DASH scores improved significantly
at 12 weeks and 24 weeks (p <
0.001) in both groups. The scores
were marginally lower in the endoscopic group compared to the open
group at 12 weeks (p = 0.012 and p = 0.002, respectively); however,
only the DASH score showed a clinically important difference. There
were no differences between the groups at 24 weeks. The mean VAS
scar satisfaction score was higher in the endoscopic group at 24 weeks
(p <
0.001). Transient superficial radial nerve injury occurred
in three patients in the endoscopic group compared with nine in
the open release group (p = 0.033). We conclude that
