Late complications after open carpal tunnel decompression

66 patients (89 hands) were assessed at least 10 months after open carpal tunnel decompression. Tender scars were found in 19% of the hands and 4% were affected by pillar pain. Grip strength was reduced in more than half of the operated hands. Hypo- and anaesthesia in the scar area were affecting 7% but were not considered disabling. In 18% of the cases there was incomplete relief of primary symptoms.