Novel steroid infiltration technique of the carpal tunnel

Abstract

This report describes a novel technique of steroid infiltration of the wrist to treat symptomatic carpal tunnel syndrome. Our approach potentially reduces direct trauma to the median nerve when compared with current conventional techniques. The use of a cannula allows infiltration directly into the carpal tunnel and advancement of the blunt tip minimises the risk of sharp trauma to the median nerve and adjacent tendons. This avoids the unpleasant, shooting pain frequently experienced by patients using traditional needle infiltration. We anticipate this would be of particular benefit in reducing pain associated with the procedure.