[Neurolysis of the median nerve in the carpal canal using a mini-invasive approach. Apropos of a prospective series of 138 cases]

The aim of this study was to assess the results of a prospective study of 138 cases with carpal tunnel syndrome operated on by a percutaneous technique.One hundred and twenty-nine patients (108 women and 21 men, with a mean age of 49.9 years) underwent preoperative assessment via a questionnaire and a clinical examination (the Weber test, buckle test, Kapandji test, Tinel test, Phalen test, Vainio test and grip force assessment). The surgical technique was singularised by the insertion of a probe cannula in the carpal tunnel so that the blade could be guided during annular ligament section.The results were assessed at one, three and six months follow-up: 98.5% very good and good results were obtained (Kelly criteria); two patients presented with an algodystrophic syndrome. No vascular, tendinous or neurological complications were noted, and the procedure was in no instance switched to an open technique.The main advantages of this technique are a rapid recuperation of hand function, with an average of 22.6 days off work, a low complication rate, and simple equipment.