ENDOSCOPIC CARPAL-TUNNEL RELEASE - A PROSPECTIVE-STUDY OF COMPLICATIONS AND SURGICAL EXPERIENCE

A 63-center prospective study of endoscopic carpal tunnel release usin g the Agee Carpal Tunnel Release System was conducted in 1049 procedur es in 988 patients. Prior experience with endoscopic release varied si gnificantly among surgeon participants. Surgeons evaluated the newly r edesigned system for blade visibility, blade height, and mechanical fu nction. Data on patient complications were collected at the time of su rgery and 3-4 weeks postoperative. The results indicated minimal compl ications and no confirmed injuries to vessels or nerves; the symptoms from one possible digital nerve injury eventually resolved completely. Surgeons were able to observe the point of entry of the blade into th e transverse carpal ligament in 97.5% of procedures. Introduction of t he blade assembly into the carpal tunnel was rated easy or adequate in 90.6% of procedures, and blade height was rated adequate in 97.4% of procedures.