Endoscopic release of the carpal ligament for carpal tunnel syndrome: long-term results using the Chow technique

Arthroscopy. 1999 May;15(4):417-21. doi: 10.1016/s0749-8063(99)70060-5.

Abstract

This report presents the author's experience with the Chow method for endoscopic release of the carpal ligament for carpal tunnel syndrome, with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. The report includes 116 cases (wrists) of 84 patients. The success rate for these cases is 93.3% and the recurrence rate is 0.96%. One temporary ulnar neuropraxia was reported in this group with spontaneous recovery. There were no permanent nerve injuries. Results of 5-year follow-up nerve conduction velocity tests are also included. This report shows that endoscopic release of the carpal ligament for carpal tunnel syndrome, using the Chow method, is a reliable alternative to the open procedure and has produced good, long-term, results.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthroscopy*
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / surgery*
  • Endoscopy / methods*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Ligaments, Articular / surgery*
  • Male
  • Median Nerve / physiopathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Neural Conduction
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wrist Joint