[Limited portal carpal tunnel release. An alternative to classic open release?].

The aim of this study was to determine the significance of limited portal carpal tunnel release compared to the classic open approach. We present a retrospective comparative clinical trial including 161 patients (105 open release and 56 limited portal release). Special interest was directed towards postoperative functionality, disorders and quality of life. Significant advantages could be demonstrated for the limited portal carpal tunnel release: rapid ability to return to work as well as to routine tasks of daily living and high patient satisfaction. In the hands of trained surgeons, limited portal carpal tunnel release represents a rewarding alternative to the classic open release.