Carpal Tunnel Release: Do We Understand the Biomechanical Consequences?

Nathan T. Morrell; Andrew Harris; Christian Skjong; Edward Akelman

doi:10.1055/s-0034-1394363

Journal of Wrist Surgery, Table of Contents

J Wrist Surg 2014; 03(04): 235-238
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1394363

Special Focus Section: Transverse Carpal Ligament

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Carpal Tunnel Release: Do We Understand the Biomechanical Consequences?

Nathan T. Morrell

¹Department of Orthopedics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

,

Andrew Harris

¹Department of Orthopedics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

,

Christian Skjong

¹Department of Orthopedics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

,

Edward Akelman

¹Department of Orthopedics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

› Author Affiliations

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.

Keywords

carpal tunnel release - transverse carpal ligament - carpal canal - biomechanics - pillar pain

Full Text

References

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