Endoscopic carpal tunnel release in a community-based series.

A retrospective analysis of 61 endoscopic carpal tunnel releases was performed. The surgical technique adhered strictly to the Inside Job protocol, as recommended between August and October of 1990. The objective was to provide a baseline for expected results and complications in a community practice setting. Results were rated excellent in 37 cases, good in 11, and poor in 4. Nine patients were not available for follow-up. Decreased postoperative morbidity and a more rapid return to work were found with endoscopic carpal tunnel release. The contribution of pillar pain, scar tenderness, pinch and grip weakness, and persistent numbness to good and poor outcomes were analyzed. One patient required repair of the median nerve. Another patient underwent conventional carpal tunnel release 1 year after the endoscopic procedure. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release promises to reduce morbidity. The results do not justify continued use of the Inside Job device described when conventional release is used as the standard for comparison.