Initial Outcomes of a Novel Modification of Looped Threaded Carpal Tunnel Release Method

Abstract

Various surgical techniques are available for the alleviation of symptoms in carpal tunnel syndrome and each of them has its pros and cons. This study was designed and performed to present a novel approach for cutting transverse carpal ligament by the thread looping technique without the use of ultrasonography. The novel modification of looped threaded carpal tunnel release was performed on 10 hands of 10 patients. The disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand score, visual analog scale, and 2-point discrimination were used for assessing the outcomes. No patients developed pillar pain or scar discomfort after surgery. Complete elimination of paresthesia, pain, and numbness occurred in all patients. There was a significant reduction in the disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand and visual analog scale scores (P value<0.05). This technique is safe, available, and effective for carpal tunnel release and minimizes postoperative complications, such as pillar pain, and scar discomfort with avoiding unnecessary injuries to the surrounding soft tissue.

Ultrasound-Guided Modified Thread Carpal Tunnel Release for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Pilot Study

“…Previous studies have reported that TCTR provides better outcomes, faster recovery, and quicker return to work than open CTR or endoscopic CTR [13,14,15,16]. Most patients experienced a reduction in pain within 12 h after TCTR.…”

“…The incidence of ulnar side branching of the recurrent motor branch has been reported to be as high as 3 %, and this can be identified using US [23]. The use of a looped TCTR without US guidance, as recently reported [16], may therefore bear a potential risk of nerve injury.…”