Evaluation and Treatment of Failed Carpal Tunnel Surgery

ABSTRACT

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve entrapment syndrome in the United States. Carpal tunnel release is usually curative, but failure or incomplete relief of symptoms may be seen in 1.6 to 25% of patients following surgery. Failure may be divided into either persistent or recurrent carpal tunnel symptoms. Potential etiologies and the evaluation of failed carpal tunnel surgery are described. Nonoperative and operative treatment options, which address possible underlying causes, are discussed. The results of revision carpal tunnel surgery are reviewed and are less predictably good compared to primary carpal tunnel release.

KEYWORD

Recurrent - revision - carpal tunnel syndrome

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