Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Animation

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Animation

This animation demonstrates an endoscopic carpal tunnel release for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. In this procedure, the transverse carpal ligament will be cut to release pressure from the underlying tendons and median nerve within the carpal tunnel.

Here, we see a right hand with the palm facing up. The wrist is placed into slight hyperextension, or backward bending, with a towel under the wrist to access the carpal tunnel. First, a small incision is made along the base of the wrist. A hook is used to move the skin out of the way, and surgical scissors are used to cut through some of the underlying soft tissue.

Next, a surgical instrument is inserted into the opening made through the skin to widen the area beneath the transverse carpal ligament of the wrist. A scraper is also used to remove any debris from the underside of the ligament. The carpal tunnel release instrument is prepared. This instrument contains a camera and a tiny blade that will be used to cut the ligament.

The instrument is inserted into the carpal tunnel of the wrist through the skin incision. The instrument's camera is used to locate the underside of the transverse carpal ligament. Once the instrument is positioned at the end of the ligament, the blade is released, and the instrument is pulled back to cut through the ligament. The skin incision will be closed with sutures, and the carpal tunnel release is complete.