The carpal tunnel syndrome is a common pathology, recognized since one and
half century. Its surgical treatment, median nerve neurolysis, has only bee
n popularized 30 years ago. Despite improvement of the surgical technique,
two main problems remain unsolved: lack of grip strength and "pillar" pain,
which can last several weeks after surgery. Endoscopy, in a same way as kn
ee meniscectomy or cholecystectomy, has contributed to minimize drawbacks o
f conventional surgery. Ten years of experience have improved the material
and the technique, the most recent series reporting very low complication r
ates. In experimented hands, and with correct indications, endoscopic treat
ment of carpal tunnel syndrome offers a clinical benefit for the patient an
d an economical one for the Society.