Ultrastructural findings after the use of a CO2 laser in carpal tunnel surgery

The laser beam enables tissue cutting and care of the cut edges, which prevents an increased scar tissue formation. For this reason we have used the laser beam in carpal tunnel surgery for transection or sealing of the transverse carpal ligament since 1981 because scar tissue formation is for the most part the cause of recurrence. Scanning-electron microscopic studies of the carpal ligament show the difference between the laser and traditional cutting techniques. After using the laser beam, there is no normal tissue structure; the cut surface appears as uneven and rough in contrast to the cut surface of the cold knife.