掌部小切口治疗腕管综合征

目的介绍应用新型掌部小切口行腕管松解术。方法对确诊为腕管综合征的68例(89侧)患者采用新型掌部小切口行腕管松解术,该切口为纵行、位于鱼际纹尺侧2～3mm、长约2.0～2.5cm,近端不超过远侧腕横纹。结果经术后6个月随访,所有患者症状均消失,拇短展肌肌力、握力、捏力、皮肤感觉功能均明显改善,术前术后差异在统计学极具显著意义(P<0.001)。本组无任何神经血管并发症,无1例出现腕掌部瘢痕疼痛。结论本切口具有安全、损伤小、直视下松解腕管并同时可行正中神经内松解和尺管松解、手术瘢痕小等诸多优点,是腕管松解术的一种新型、可靠的手术入路。     

Endoscopic versus open carpal tunnel release: A short-term comparative study

Objective:

To compare the results of endoscopic carpal tunnel release (CTR) with open CTR in patients with idiopathic Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Materials and Methods:

Seventy-one patients with CTS were enrolled in a prospective randomized study from May 2003 to December 2005. All patients had clinical signs or symptoms and electro-diagnostic findings consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome and had not responded to nonoperative management. Sixty-one cases were available for follow-up. Endoscopic CTR was performed in 30 CTS patients and open CTR was performed in 31 wrists (30 patients). Various parameters were evaluated, including each patient''s symptom amelioration, complications, operation time, time needed to resume normal lifestyle and the frequency of revision surgery. All the patients were followed up for six months.

Results:

During the initial months after surgery, the patients treated with the endoscopic method were better symptomatically and functionally. Local wound problems in terms of scarring or scar tenderness were significantly more pronounced in patients undergoing open CTR compared to patients undergoing endoscopic CTR. Average delay to return to normal activity was appreciably less in group undergoing endoscopic CTR. No significant difference was observed between the endoscopic CTR group and open CTR group in regard to symptom amelioration, electromyographic testing and complications at the end of six months.

Conclusion:

Short-term results were better with the endoscopic method as there was no scar tenderness. Results at six months were comparable in both groups.     

Symptoms During or Shortly After Isolated Carpal Tunnel Release and Problems Within 24?hours After Surgery

This study used the National Survey of Ambulatory Surgery (NSAS) database to measure the incidence of and risk factors for symptoms in the ambulatory surgery center and problems within 24 h after isolated carpal tunnel release (CTR). The NSAS contained records on 400,000 adult patients with carpal tunnel syndrome who were treated with CTR in 2006, based on ICD-9 codes. The type of anesthesia used and factors associated with symptoms and problems were sought in bivariate and multivariable statistical analyses. The mean duration of the procedure was 16 ± 8.8 min. Only 5 % were performed under local anesthesia without sedation, 45 % with IV sedation, 28 % regional anesthesia, and 19 % general anesthesia. Symptoms in the ambulatory surgery center or a problem within 24 h after discharge were recorded in 10 % of patients, all of them minor and transient, including difficulties with pain and its treatment. The strongest risk factors were male sex, age of 45 years and older, and participation of an anesthesiologist. Local anesthesia and regional anesthesia were associated with more perioperative symptoms and postoperative problems. Most CTR are performed with some sedation in the United States. CTR is a safe procedure: one in 10 patients will experience a minor issue in the perioperative or immediate postoperative period.     

掌部小切口减压治疗腕管综合征

目的:介绍掌部小切口横断腕横韧带治疗腕管综合征的方法,并评价其疗效及安全性。方法:自2006年1月至2007年9月,采用掌部纵形小切口,切断腕横韧带治疗腕管综合征15例(18侧),男2例,女13例;年龄34～69岁,平均48岁;单侧12例,双侧3例;病程8～26个月,平均18个月。主要临床表现为:桡侧3个半指麻木或疼痛,腕部疼痛,并向前臂放射,夜间麻醒史,大鱼际肌肉萎缩,Tinel征阳性,Phalen征阳性。电生理检查均有正中神经感觉神经传导速度(SCV)减慢、感觉神经动作电位(SNAP)波幅下降或缺失,严重者拇短展肌可有自发电位。术后随访时采用GSS评分(Global symptom score),分别从疼痛、麻木感、感觉异常、肌力减退和夜醒等5个方面进行评价。结果:术后所有患者伤口均甲级愈合,无并发症发生。15例患者均获随访,时间20～28个月,平均24个月。除1例患者未完全缓解外,其余患者症状消失,拇短展肌肌力增强,GSS评分较术前有明显改善(P<0.05)。结论:小切口减压治疗腕管综合征具有安全性高、手术时间短、创伤小、瘢痕小等优点,直视下切断腕横韧带,可彻底松解正中神经,是安全、有效的手术入路。     

内窥镜Chow法治疗腕管综合征

目的探讨内窥镜镜视下Chow法行钩刀或推刀切断腕横韧带,解除正中神经压迫的手术方法和疗效。方法2004年5月-2009年8月,对76例（85侧）腕管综合征患者采用Chow法在内窥镜镜视下行腕横韧带切开术。结果经2～18月随访,伤口均一期愈合,无血管神经损伤,无手掌部疼痛,无伤口感染,多数患者术后夜麻即消失,术后4周桡侧三个半指感觉恢复正常,麻木、疼痛症状明显缓解,10周左右拇对掌功能恢复。Kelly分级评定：优（症状完全消失）58侧,良（明显缓解）21侧,一般（症状轻度减轻）5侧,差（症状不变或加重）1侧,优良率92．94％。结论Chow法内窥镜镜视下切开腕横韧带治疗腕管综合征是安全有效的微创手术。     

A Detailed Cost and Efficiency Analysis of Performing Carpal Tunnel Surgery in the Main Operating Room versus the Ambulatory Setting in Canada

Background Our goals were to analyze cost and efficiency of performing carpal tunnel release (CTR) in the main operating room (OR) versus the ambulatory setting, and to document the venue of carpal tunnel surgery practices by plastic surgeons in Canada. Method A detailed analysis of the salaries of nonphysician personnel and materials involved in CTR performed in these settings was tabulated. Hospital statistical records were used to calculate our efficiency analysis. A survey of practicing plastic surgeons in Canada documented the venue of CTR performed by most. Results In a 3-h surgical block, we are able to perform nine CTRs in the ambulatory setting versus four in the main OR. The cost of CTR in the ambulatory setting is $36/case and $137/case in the main OR in the same hospital. Only 18% of Canadian respondents use the main OR exclusively for CTR, whereas 63% use it for some of their cases. The ambulatory setting is used exclusively by 37%, whereas 69% use it for greater than 95% of their cases. The majority of CTR cases (>95%) are done without an anesthesia provider by 73% of surgeons. Forty-three percent use epinephrine routinely with local anesthesia and 43% avoid the use of a tourniquet for at least some cases by using epinephrine for hemostasis. Conclusion The use of the main OR for CTR is almost four times as expensive, and less than half as efficient as in an ambulatory setting. In spite of this, many surgeons in Canada continue to use the more expensive, less efficient venue of the main OR for CTR. Martin Leblanc, MD, presented this paper at the AAHS meeting in Puerto Rico, January 2007, and was awarded best resident presentation at the AAHS meeting. This research was performed without any supporting funds from any sources.     

关节镜镜视下行腕横韧带切开术

目的 介绍在关节镜镜视下行腕横韧带切开术治疗腕管综合的方法。方法 1999年3月以来，对15例（18侧）腕管综合征采用Chow两点法在关节镜镜视下行腕横韧带切开术。腕管入口位于腕横纹近端2－3cm，掌长肌腱尺侧缘。腕关节背伸位时，将带槽套管自腕管入口处对准第3指蹼方向插入，从腕管远端穿出。在关节镜监控下用钩刀切开腕横韧带。结果 术后随访2－16上月，平均7个月。术后桡侧3指半的感觉已恢复正常。3例有拇指对掌功能和大鱼际肌萎缩者，术后3－6个月均恢复正常。无血管神经损伤和感染等并发症发生。结论 关节镜镜视下切开腕横韧带治疗腕管综合征是安全有效的微创手术。     

Experience with Transtrapezium Approach for Transverse Carpal Ligament Release in Patients with Coexisted Trapeziometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

An experience with transtrapezium approach for carpal tunnel release is reported. This technique seems to be successful in cases when carpal tunnel syndrome and first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis coexist and surgical treatment is indicated for both conditions. The transtrapezium approach to carpal tunnel release allows for complete carpal tunnel release without increasing the risk of surgical complications. This study was performed at the Division of Hand Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, State University of New York, University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York.     

RESULTS OF OPEN CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE: A COMPREHENSIVE,RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF 188 HANDS

Background : Many recent reports of the results of decompression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel have concentrated on only one aspect of recovery (numbness, grip etc.), and there are no reports of a comprehensive study of outcome. The aim of the present study was to review comprehensively the results of the direct visualization method of decompression of the carpal tunnel and to compare them with the published results of endoscopic release. Methods : Patients' perceptions of the severity of pain, numbness and paraesthesiae due to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), before and after open carpal tunnel release (CTR) in 188 hands were reviewed retrospectively at a minimum time of follow-up of 18 months. Motor and sensory testing, provocation testing and measurement of scar tenderness in 135 hands were performed at a clinical review. Results : Subjective results showed that 70% experienced a reduction in the severity of pain after CTR, 78% of hands experienced a reduction in the severity of paraesthesiae and 77% experienced a reduction in the severity of numbness. A total of 49% had improvements in all three symptoms after CTR. At the clinical review, sensory testing revealed that 59% of hands had normal or slightly diminished light touch, 35% had normal static two-point discrimination and 61% had normal dynamic two-point discrimination. Results for Tinel's test, Phalen's test and pressure provocation testing were positive in 10% of hands. There was no scar tenderness in 38%, no persisting thenar atrophy in 90%. Normal grip strength was found in 93% and 91% had normal pinch strength. Conclusions : It was concluded that open carpal tunnel release remains a safe and reliable treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. The very low incidence of serious complications from the open technique of CTR, when compared with endoscopic CTR as published by different authors in the literature, and the comparable clinical results, appears to make the open technique a safer and preferable option. However, a properly controlled trial of both techniques is necessary to compare them.     

Factors associated with trigger digit following carpal tunnel release

BACKGROUND Trigger digit is a common disorder of the hand associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.Carpal tunnel release(CTR) surgery may be a risk factor for trigger digit development;however,the association between surgical approach to CTR and postoperative trigger digit is equivocal.AIM To investigate patient risk factors for trigger digit development following either open carpal tunnel release(OCTR) or endoscopic carpal tunnel release(ECTR).METHODS This retrospective chart analysis evaluated 967 CTR procedures from 694 patients for the development of postoperative trigger digit.Patients were stratified according to the technique utilized for their CTR,either open or endoscopic.The development of postoperative trigger digit was evaluated at three time points:within 6 mo following CTR,between 6 mo and 12 mo following CTR,and after 12 mo following CTR.Firth's penalized likelihood logistic regression was conducted to evaluate sociodemographic and patient comorbidities as potential independent risk factors for trigger digit.Secondary regression models were conducted within each surgical group to reveal any potential interaction effects between surgical approach and patient risk factors for the development of postoperative trigger digit.RESULTS A total of 47 hands developed postoperative trigger digit following 967 CTR procedures(4.9%).In total,64 digits experienced postoperative triggering.The long finger was most commonly affected.There was no significant difference between the open and endoscopic groups for trigger digit development at all three time points following CTR.Furthermore,there were no significant independent risk factors for postoperative trigger digit;however,within group analysis revealed a significant interaction effect between gender and surgical approach(P=0.008).Females were more likely to develop postoperative trigger digit than males after OCTR(OR=3.992),but were less likely to develop postoperative trigger digit than males after ECTR(OR=0.489).CONCLUSION Patient comorbidities do not influence the development of trigger digit following CTR.Markedly,gender differences for postoperative trigger digit may depend on surgical approach to CTR.     

Should aspirin be stopped before carpal tunnel surgery? A prospective study

AIM: To determine whether patients taking aspirin during carpal tunnel release had an increase of complications.METHODS: Between January 2008 and January 2010, 150 patients underwent standard open carpal tunnel release (CTR) under intravenous regional anaesthesia. They were divided into three groups: groups 1 and 2 were made of 50 patients each, on aspirin 100 mg/d for at least a year. In group 1 the aspirin was never stopped. In group 2 it was stopped at least 5 d before surgery and resumed 3 d after. Group 3 acted as a control, with 50 patients who did not take aspirin. The incidence of clinically significant per- or post-operative complications was recorded and divided into local and cardio-cerebro-vascular complications. Local complications were then divided into minor and major according to Page and Stern. Local haematomas were assessed at 2 d (before resuming aspirin in group 2) and 14 d (after resuming aspirin in group 2) postoperatively. Patients were reviewed at 2, 14 and 90 d after surgery.RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications in the three groups. A total of 3 complications (2 major and 1 minor) and 27 visible haematomas were recorded. Two major complications were observed respectively in group 1 (non stop aspirin) and in group 3 (never antiaggregated). The minor complication, observed in one patient of group 2 (stop aspirin), consisted of a wound dehiscence, which only led to delayed healing. All haematomas were observed in the first 48 h, no haematoma lasted for more than 2 wk and all resolved spontaneously. A major haematoma (score > 20 cm²) was observed in 8 patients. A minor haematoma (score < 20 cm²) was recorded in 19 patients. All patients at 90 d after surgery were satisfied with the result in terms of relief of their preoperative symptoms. Major and minor haematomas did not impair hand function or require any specific therapy.CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that continuation of aspirin did not increase the risk of complications. It is unnecessary to stop aspirin before CTR with good surgical techniques.     

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release: thirteen years' experience with the Chow technique

The purpose of this single-center study was to evaluate the results of endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) by using the dual portal Chow technique in a large series of patients. A total of 2,675 procedures in 1,886 patients were performed during a 13-year period. Follow-up evaluation was performed in 2,402 (90%) cases or 1,698 (90%) patients. The success rate was 95% and the recurrence rate was 0.5%. A total of 106 cases (4.5%) were considered failures or had unsatisfactory results. The overall complication rate was 1.1% but no serious complications occurred in this series. The return-to-work status was followed-up in 1,156 patients; 90% of non-worker's compensation patients and 60% of worker's compensation patients returned to work within 4 weeks. This study suggests that ECTR for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTR) is a reliable procedure with a high success rate. Based on our 13 years of experience, we believe that the technique is safe and iatrogenic complications can be avoided with meticulous surgical technique.     

腕管综合征的治疗方法选择与疗效评价

目的 评价不同方法治疗腕管综合征(CTS)的疗效,为提高CTS的诊治水平提供依据.方法 回顾性分析2005年5月至2009年9月收治的162例CTS患者,其中轻度CTS 96例,重度CTS 54例,正中神经完全损伤型CTS 12例.针对不同类型患者分别采用保守治疗、单纯腕管松解手术治疗、腕管+掌腱膜完全松解手术治疗.比较治疗前后患者的临床表现、神经电生理检测、Chen W-S腕部正中神经损害疗效评分等指标.结果 162例患者治疗后获6～36个月(平均15个月)随访.轻度CTS:3种治疗方法均有效,临床症状改善明显,经治疗后Chen W-S评分由(73.1±6.5)分提高到(94.9±8.7)分,手术治疗较保守治疗效果无明显优势.重度CTS:3种治疗方法均有效,保守治疗患者治疗后Chen W-S评分提高了(9.9±1.4)分,单纯腕管松解手术后Chen W-S评分提高了(24.6±8.2)分,腕管+掌腱膜完全松解手术后Chen W-S评分提高了(33.9±7.5)分,腕管+掌腱膜完全松解手术的疗效优于单纯腕管松解手术,而二者均优于保守治疗.正中神经完全损伤型CTS:治疗后临床症状改善不明显.结论 早期发现、及时治疗并去除发病诱因是促进CTS患者恢复的有效措施.针对CTS的不同损伤程度,采用不同的治疗方法可促进手部功能恢复.     

Bifid median nerve as a determinant of carpal tunnel syndrome recurrence after endoscopic procedures. A case report

A number of complications have been associated with endoscopic technique in treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). We observed a female patient who had previously undergone endoscopic surgery for CTS. Shortly after surgery, this patient complained of pain, numbness and strength deficiency, as severe as it was before the operation. A new, open, surgical procedure was performed. During this second-look surgery, we found a bifid median nerve, which divided into two branches at the second third of the forearm, proximal to the flexor retinaculum. We strongly suggest a careful exploration of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Moreover, we believe that an extensive preoperative assessment of median nerve morphology and function is mandatory prior to endoscopic approach in treating CTS.     

Is main operating room sterility really necessary in carpal tunnel surgery? A multicenter prospective study of minor procedure room field sterility surgery

Background

Over 70% of Canadian carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) operations are performed outside of the main operating room (OR) with field sterility and surgeon-administered pure local anesthesia [LeBlanc et al., Hand 2(4):173–8, 14]. Is main OR sterility necessary to avoid infection for this operation? This study evaluates the infection rate in carpal tunnel release (CTR) using minor procedure room field sterility.

Methods

This is a multicenter prospective study reporting the rate of infection in CTR performed in minor procedure room setting using field sterility. Field sterility means prepping of the hand with iodine or chlorhexidine, equivalent of a single drape, and a sterile tray with modest instruments. Sterile gloves and masks are used, but surgeons are not gowned. No prophylactic antibiotics are given.

Results

One thousand five hundred four consecutive CTS cases were collected from January 2008 to January 2010. Six superficial infections were reported and four of those patients received oral antibiotics. No deep postoperative wound infection was encountered, and no patient required admission to hospital, incision and drainage, or intravenous antibiotics.

Conclusions

A superficial infection rate of 0.4% and a deep infection rate of 0% following CTR using field sterility confirm the low incidence of postoperative wound infection using field sterility. This supports the safety and low incidence of postoperative wound infection in CTR using minor procedure field sterility without prophylactic antibiotics. The higher monetary and environmental costs of main OR sterility are not justified on the basis of infection for CTR cases.     

A case of complex regional pain syndrome type II after transradial coronary intervention

The transradial approach for coronary catheterization is now a routine technique without serious complications at the puncture site. We report a case of complex regional pain syndrome type II (CRPS type II) in the hand after the transradial coronary intervention, which may alert medical personnel that the technique may cause serious regional pain with disability. A 61-year-old woman underwent coronary intervention via the right radial artery for the treatment of unstable angina. After the operation she complained of severe pain in the right hand, consistently felt along the median nerve distribution. The nerve conduction study suggested carpal tunnel syndrome. We made a diagnosis of CRPS type II, and the patient received stellate ganglion blockade, cervical epidural blockade, and administration of amitriptyline and loxoprofen. The symptoms gradually improved and her activities of daily living markedly improved. The median nerve appeared to be damaged by local compression and potential ischemia. Careful attention should be paid to avoid CRPS type II, associated with excess compression.     

腕管综合征术中神经电生理检测与手术疗效评价的初步探讨

目的 通过对腕管综合征术前、术中正中神经-拇短展肌复合肌肉动作电位(compound muscle action potential,CMAP)变化的观察,寻求检测手术效果的可靠指标和时机.方法 对15例腕管综合征行腕管切开正中神经松解术的患者,分别于术前(臂丛神经阻滞麻醉后)、正中神经松解术毕松止血带后即刻及1、3、5、7 min检测正中神经-拇短展肌CMAP潜伏期和波幅的动态变化,并与术前检测值进行统计学分析.方果 正中神经松解术毕松止血带后即刻至5 min,正中神经.拇短展肌CMAP的潜伏期和波幅随时间变化而有显著改变(P<0.05),5 min以后的变化差异无统计学意义(P>0.05).正中神经-拇短展肌CMAP的潜伏期比术前缩短,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),但波幅与术前相比差异有明显统计学意义(P<0.01).方论 对腕管综合征行神经松解术后,拇短展肌CMAP的波幅比其潜伏期更能体现神经松解的疗效,而在松止血带5 min后进行神经电生理检测来评价手术效果更为可靠.     

Median Nerve Compression in the Forearm: A Clinical Diagnosis

Background: Median nerve entrapment in the forearm (MNEF) without motor paralysis is a challenging diagnosis. This retrospective study evaluated the clinical presentation, diagnostic studies, and outcomes following surgical decompression of MNEF. Methods: The study reviewed 147 patient medical charts following MNEF surgical decompression. With exclusion of patients with combined nerve entrapments (radial and ulnar), polyneuropathy, neurotmetic nerve injury, or median nerve motor palsy, the study sample included 27 patients. Data collected include: clinical presentation and pain, strength, provocative testing, functional outcomes, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores. Results: The study included 27 patients (mean follow-up = 7 months), and 13 patients had previous carpal tunnel release (CTR). Clinical presentation included pain (n = 27) (forearm, n = 22; median nerve innervated digits, n = 21; and palm, n = 21) and positive clinical tests (forearm scratch collapse test, n = 27; pain with compression over the flexor digitorum superficialis arch/pronator, n = 24; Tinel sign, n = 11). Positive electrodiagnostic studies were found for MNEF (n = 2) and carpal tunnel syndrome (n = 11). Primary CTR was performed in 10 patients and revision CTR in 7 patients. Postoperatively, there were significant (P < .05) improvements in strength, pain, quality of life, and DASH scores. Conclusions: The MNEF without motor paralysis is a clinical diagnosis supported by pain drawings, pain quality, and provocative tests. Patients with persistent forearm pain and median nerve symptoms (especially after CTR) should be evaluated for MNEF. Surgical decompression provides satisfactory outcomes.     

Basal joint arthroplasty decreases carpal tunnel pressure

Background

There is a well-documented association between carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis, and these conditions commonly coexist. We have observed that patients who have previously undergone thumb basal joint arthroplasty (BJA) seem rarely to present subsequently with CTS. Our hypothesis is that BJA decreases the pressure within the carpal tunnel.

Methods

Twenty-eight patients (6 with coexistent CTS) undergoing BJA were enrolled in the study. The pressure within the carpal tunnel immediately before and after BJA was measured using a commercially available pressure monitor device (Stryker STIC; Kalamazoo, MI). In patients with concomitant CTS undergoing both BJA and carpal tunnel release (CTR), the pressure was measured after BJA but prior to release of the transverse carpal ligament.

Results

The pressure within the carpal tunnel decreased after BJA in all patients. There were 3 patients with stage II arthritis, 15 patients with stage III arthritis, and 10 patients with stage IV arthritis. The mean pressure prior to BJA among all patients was 23.9 mmHg and decreased to 11.0 mmHg after BJA. Patients with concomitant CTS had a mean pre-BJA pressure of 26.5 mmHg, which decreased to 7.3 mmHg after BJA.

Conclusions

BJA decompresses the carpal tunnel and decreases the pressure within. In patients with concomitant CTS, the BJA alone (without additional release of the transverse carpal ligament) decreases the carpal tunnel pressure. Further study is warranted to determine the need for discrete release of the transverse carpal ligament in patients with CTS who are undergoing BJA.

Level of Evidence

Level II, diagnostic.     

Standard open decompression in carpal tunnel syndrome compared with a modified open technique preserving the superficial skin nerves: a prospective randomized study

PURPOSE: A common surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is open carpal tunnel decompression. This involves skin incision followed by sharp dissection straight down through fat and palmar fascia to the transverse carpal ligament, which is then divided. The incidence of scar discomfort ranges from 19% to 61%, and its cause is not fully understood. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to investigate whether preservation of superficial nerve branches crossing the incision site reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative scar pain after open carpal tunnel release. METHODS: Forty-two patients with bilateral idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (84 hands) were included in the study. The patients were randomized to determine which hand was to have carpal tunnel decompression using a technique that would try to preserve the superficial nerve branches. The other hand had open carpal tunnel decompression without any attempt to preserve the superficial nerve branches. An assessment of each hand in each patient was performed immediately before surgery and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. This assessment was performed with a questionnaire based on the Patient Evaluation Measure. RESULTS: We found no evidence of a difference in scar pain between the 2 methods at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. There was a significant difference in the length of surgery between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Scar pain scores in this series of open carpal tunnel decompressions were similar, whether or not an attempt was made to identify and preserve superficial nerve branches crossing the wound.