[The treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome]

The invasive treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome is only indicated if the symptoms persistently interfere with the normal lifestyle (for a period of at least several months), and if the diagnosis has been established beyond reasonable doubt. The standard treatment still consists of an open surgical cleavage of the transverse carpal ligament (with an incision distal to the transverse crease of the wrist). Between 75 and 90% of patients obtain long-term relief as a result of the operation. Endoscopic release may result in a more rapid recovery. However, it is more often associated with complications than the conventional operation, and it requires new equipment and extensive training. The injection of corticosteroids near the carpal tunnel is reasonably safe and also effective, albeit mostly just in the short term; in most patients the symptoms recur within a few months.