Endoscopic carpal-tunnel releases were performed, with use of the
two-portal technique described by Chow, on twenty-four fresh or
fresh-frozen wrist specimens from cadavera. Twelve surgeons were taught the
technique in the cadaver model by an experienced colleague. Nine surgeons
performed one endoscopic carpal-tunnel release; three performed three or
more. Incomplete release of the transverse carpal ligament was noted in
nine specimens (38 per cent). The percentage of incomplete releases was the
same for both the surgeons who performed one endoscopic carpal-tunnel
release and those who performed three or more. Complications occurred in
four specimens (17 per cent) and included lacerations of an ulnar artery
and a median nerve, partial laceration of a flexor tendon, and a fracture
of the hook of the hamate. The observed complications and incomplete
releases of the transverse carpal ligament in this training model emphasize
the risks that may occur when a surgeon is first learning this
procedure.