CARPAL-TUNNEL RELEASE WITHOUT A TOURNIQUET

Release of the transverse carpal ligament can be performed safely unde r local anesthesia. The addition of epinephrine to the local anestheti c will cause sufficient vasoconstriction to maintain a dry field witho ut the need of a tourniquet. The allows the procedure to be performed without regard to tourniquet pain. It has been our technique of choice in patients with functioning hemodialysis fistulae. The procedure was performed in 21 wrists to assess its safety. This approach was to be a safe, effective, and efficient alternative to the standard tournique t-dependent procedure.