Carpal tunnel release using universal subcutaneous endoscope system: anatomical study and clinical application / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To report carpal tunnel release using Universal Subcutaneous Endoscope System from anatomical and clinical point of view for the purpose of avoiding operative complication and improving clinical efficacy. Methods Operation approach and adjacent structures were observed and measured on 18 fresh upper limb specimens and 26 formaldehyde solution fixed upper limb specimens. Nineteen patients with 21 carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) were treated with this method under local anaesthesia without tourniquet. The incision is made in the wrist just 2-3 cm superior to palmar crease of the wrist at the medial border of the palmaris longus. The operation plane is just under the deeper layer of deep fascia. The instrument points to the third web. The median nerve and its branches, flexor retinaculum and superficial palmar arch were carefully observed. Results The results were satisfactory in all patients. Conclusion Single wrist portal arthroscopic procedure is a safe, simple and efficient approach if the anatomic structures of the wrist are perfectly clear to the opeator.