Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition affecting approximately three to four percent of the general population. It is often characterized by numbness and tingling in the fingers, weakness, and pain in the hand. Symptoms may be increased with certain activities, during sleep, and with extreme positions of the wrist such as driving a car.

The causes of carpal tunnel syndrome are too numerous to list, but include diabetes, hypothyroidism, and certain repetitive activities on the hand. Non-operative treatment includes splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and occasionally steroid injections. If the latter doesn’t work, then surgery is warranted.

The standard technique involves an incision in the palm to decompress the nerve that is being pinched. Over the last decade, a newer procedure called endoscopic carpal tunnel release has been developed which uses a camera and small instruments to accomplish the same end. This uses one or two little incisions. The advantage of the endoscopic technique is the slightly small incisions mean a faster recovery after surgery, which translates into a speedier return to work and other activities. The disadvantage is a slightly higher risk due to a somewhat poorer ability to see all of the structures in the tunnel. Both techniques are quick, and performed on an outpatient basis. In either case, the long-term outcome for both procedures is essentially the same, with most individuals enjoying permanent relief of symptoms.