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Long-term outcomes of carpal tunnel release: a critical review of the literature

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HAND

Abstract

Background

Carpal tunnel release (CTR) is widely accepted as an effective surgical treatment method for idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome. While the short-term literature is well substantiated, the “long-term” literature has rarely exceeded 2 years of follow-up, which may be inadequate for a chronic and potentially recurring disease such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Methods

An English language literature search for long-term outcomes research on carpal tunnel release was made. Long-term is defined as 2 years or more after surgery.

Results

CTR is a highly effective procedure, but important aspects remain poorly understood, including recurrence and existing electromyographic data. Some study design issues exist with the current literature.

Conclusions

Further high-quality research is needed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital Hand and Upper Extremity Service, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Orthopedics A-Main, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Dexter Louie, Brandon Earp & Philip Blazar

Authors
  1. Dexter Louie
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  2. Brandon Earp
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  3. Philip Blazar
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Dexter Louie.

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No external funding or grants supported this article.

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Louie, D., Earp, B. & Blazar, P. Long-term outcomes of carpal tunnel release: a critical review of the literature. HAND 7, 242–246 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-012-9429-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-012-9429-x

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