Complications in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Complications may result from every facet of the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. The authors review the common errors in diagnosis, nonoperative management, and operative treatment, with emphasis on prevention and resolution of complications. In general, surgeons can minimize complications by taking a thorough patient history, performing a comprehensive physical examination, and possessing a precise knowledge of the appropriate anatomy. Endoscopic techniques appear to offer some advantage over conventional open techniques with regard to the patient's postoperative incision pain, preservation of grip strength, and time to return to work; however, these advantages may be potentially negated by the risk of injury to neurovascular structures and tendons.

Duke Scholars

Author Allan Howard Friedman Neurosurgery