Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 22, 2026
Screening of Axonal Degeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasonography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Published on: January 11, 2019
[Carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance : Efficacy and safety]
1Inselspital, Universitätsspital Bern, Handchirurgie und Chirurgie der peripheren Nerven, Freiburgstrasse 18, Bern, Schweiz, 3018. esther.voegelin@insel.ch.
Background:
Open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) is effective but results in more extensive scarring. Ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release (USCTR) has become established as a minimally invasive alternative.
Aims:
This systematic review aims to compare USCTR techniques, as well as their efficacy and safety, with open techniques. The review covers the technique, functional outcomes (objective and subjective), imaging results, and electrophysiological findings.
Results:
USCTR is safe when certain anatomical conditions are taken into account. Significant improvements in functional outcomes (objective and subjective) are observed. However, no difference in motor latency, sensory nerve conduction velocity, or complication rates has been reported between USCTR and OCTR. USCTR patients return to work 10-15 days earlier and resume their daily activities 21 days earlier than patients who undergo OCTR. The complication and reoperation rates for USCTR are approximately 1.6%.
