Carpal Tunnel Release: Do We Understand the Biomechanical Consequences?

Overview

Journal J Wrist Surg

Date 2014 Nov 4

PMID 25364635

Citations 8

Authors

Nathan T Morrell

Andrew Harris

Christian Skjong

Edward Akelman

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Carpal tunnel release is a very common procedure performed in the United States. While the procedure is often curative, some patients experience postoperative scar sensitivity, pillar pain, grip weakness, or recurrent median nerve symptoms. Release of the carpal tunnel has an effect on carpal anatomy and biomechanics, including increases in carpal arch width and carpal tunnel volume and changes in muscle and tendon mechanics. Our understanding of how these biomechanical changes contribute to postoperative symptoms is still evolving. We review the relevant morphometric and biomechanical changes that occur following release of the transverse carpal ligament.

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