Abstract
Objective
This study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a disposable sterile syringe-derived cannula for endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and to evaluate the clinical outcomes of this technique in patients undergoing ECTR.
Methods
ECTR was performed on patients with CTS. A 2.5 mL disposable sterile syringe was modified into a cannula with an upper calibrated section and a transparent lower portion. A skin incision, approximately 1 cm in length, was made on the ulnar side of the palmaris longus tendon at the proximal wrist crease level. Following blunt dissection, the cannula was inserted into the wound, and both the arthroscope and a spade knife were introduced simultaneously. The instruments were advanced with the spade knife cutting the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) from proximal to distal under direct visualization. The wound was closed using silk sutures. All patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months postoperatively. At the final follow-up, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire’s symptom severity score (SSS) and function status score (FSS), along with the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, were recorded and compared to preoperative values.
Results
A total of 16 patients (19 wrists) with a mean age of 52.5 years were enrolled between May 2024 and December 2024. All patients completed the follow-up, with a median duration of 8 months. At the final follow-up, VAS scores, SSS-BCTSQ, and FSS-BCTSQ demonstrated significant improvements from baseline (P < 0.001). No intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported.
Conclusion
The use of a 2.5 mL disposable sterile syringe to create a cannula for ECTR in CTS treatment is a safe, and feasible approach.
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