Pillar pain represents one of the most common complications of classic open carpal tunnel release (CTR). This complication causes a senseof discomfort worse than the compression syndrome itself. We, herein, introduce a new treatment method for CTR through a mini-incision, which allows subcutaneously cutting the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) and releasing the median nerve without neurovascularcomplications. This mini-incision approach can allow the direct visualization and preservation of the thenar motor branch in those rarecases where it has an aberrant origin. For the past 10 years, we have consecutively performed this technique in the surgical treatment of318 patients with the diagnosis of primary CTS, without developing any neurovascular and tendon injuries as well as pillar pain.
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