In endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut. This releases the median nerve.

Endoscopic surgery uses a thin tube with a camera attached (endoscope). The endoscope is guided through a small incision in the wrist (single-portal technique) or at the wrist and palm (two-portal technique). The endoscope lets the doctor see structures in the wrist (such as the transverse carpal ligament) without opening the entire area with a large incision.

The cutting tools used in endoscopic surgery are very tiny. They also are inserted through the small incisions in the wrist or wrist and palm. In the single-portal technique, one small tube contains both the camera and a cutting tool.

During endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut. This releases pressure on the median nerve. So the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are relieved.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
Last Revised	October 21, 2010