PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate, in human corpses, the section of the transverse carpal ligament by comparing endoscopic (Chow's technique) and conventional (mini-incision) accesses. METHODS: Eighteen fresh not claimed corpses were distributed into 2 groups: group 1 (18 left wrists) and group 2 (18 right wrists). Group 1 was subjected to endoscopic access (Chow's technique) while in Group 2 ligaments were accessed through mini-incisions. RESULTS: Complete section of transverse carpal ligament was attained in 15 cases (83,3 %) in group 1 and 17 cases (94,4 %) in group 2. Operative time in group 1 averaged 27,2 minutes and 29,2 minutes in group 2. Lesion of median nerve occurred in 2 cases (11,1 %) in group 1. Group 2 presented no nerve lesions. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that there is no significant difference when comparing endoscopic and conventional techniques in the section of transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve injury, inspite of its significant (p < 0,05) incidence in this study may be related to the researcher's learning curve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome; Endoscopic versus conventional technique
