Scalpel Versus Electrocautery for Surgical Skin Incision in Open Carpal Tunnel Release

Scalpel Versus Electrocautery for Surgical Skin Incision in Open Carpal Tunnel Release - Randomized, Controlled Open-Label Trial

The use of electrocautery for surgical skin incision in general surgery is known to decrease post-operative pain. This study compares the use of scalpel and electrocautery for surgical skin incision in open carpal tunnel release (OCTR).

The use of electrocautery for surgical skin incision in general surgery is known to decrease post-operative pain. This study compares the use of scalpel and electrocautery for surgical skin incision in open carpal tunnel release (OCTR).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 - 60 years
• Scheduled to undergo open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) by a study group member
• Gives informed consent
• diagnosis of chronic carpal tunnel syndrome

Exclusion Criteria:

• -Any current underlying systemic illness or condition that may affect wound healing (e.g. diabetes or chronic vascular disease)
• History of severe systemic or focal illness (e.g. previous myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Chronic skin condition in the affected upper limb (e.g. psoriasis)
• Pregnancy
• Inability to comprehend the consent form (in Finnish) or inability to give consent
• Previous surgery or scar in the palmar aspect of the affected wrist
• Recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome
• Previous significant trauma of the affected upper extremity (including distal radius fracture) or suspicion of acute onset carpal tunnel syndrome