Comparison of short wrist transverse open and limited open techniques for carpal tunnel release: a randomized controlled trial of two incisions

92 patients (100 wrists) with carpal tunnel syndrome were randomized to undergo carpal tunnel release with either a standard limited open or short wrist transverse open surgical technique. The purpose of this study was to compare these two incision methods by evaluating scar sensitivity, symptom severity, function, and patient satisfaction two years after surgery. Results demonstrated that both surgical techniques were associated with significant improvement in symptom severity and wrist function when compared to preoperative values, but were comparable to each other for all clinical outcomes throughout the follow-up period.