Bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release: Mean time to resume activities of daily living and return to work

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the time needed to return to personal and professional activities after bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release. During a retrospective, single-center study, we included a cohort of 30 patients (60 wrists). Patients were evaluated clinically (pain, paresthesia) and functionally (QuickDASH score) pre- and postoperatively. At the last follow-up, patients completed a questionnaire regarding the time needed to resume personal activities using the ADL scale (feeding, personal hygiene and dressing) and return to work. We also evaluated procedure satisfaction and willingness to undergo the surgery again. The average patient age was 60.5 years (range 39–86). At the last follow-up, average time to resume personal activities was 2.2 days (0–14) for feeding, 4.4 days (0–15) for personal hygiene and 3.9 days (0–14) for dressing. Average time to return to recreational activities was 11.7 days (1–60). Average time to return to work was 36.6 days (15–60). Overall, 97% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the outcome. All patients would have the bilateral simultaneous surgery again. Bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release is rarely performed. For mild conditions, contralateral symptom improvement is common after unilateral surgery. Bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release appears to be disabling right after surgery, but clinical and functional scores are similar after the third postoperative day. These data can be used for patient education and decision making when considering surgery bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. Bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release is a feasible and safe procedure. Level of evidenceLevel IV, case series.