[Re-intervention after carpal tunnel release]

In the last eight years we performed 63 re-interventions because of recurrent carpal tunnel syndromes. Intact parts of the retinaculum were the reason for persistent symptoms in 38 patients. 21 patients suffered from scar tethering, two patients from circumferential fibrosis of the nerve. In one patient a ganglion and in another patient a direct injury to the median nerve was detected. In 21 patients short incisions were performed in the primary procedures. Since the introduction of endoscopic carpal tunnel release, an open decompression via a short incision is recommended as an alternative. Since then we encounter an increase of necessary operative revisions after short incisions. Optical tools may increase the survey especially in short incisions. In extended teno-synovialitis of the flexor tendons, a longer incision over the wrist enables adequate conditions for a safe teno-synovialectomy. The length of the incision has to be chosen according to the pathologic-anatomic situation, the disposable equipment and the experience of the surgeon.