[Relocation of the median nerve after scarring along the carpal tunnel with hypothenar fatty tissue flap-plasty]

Handchir Mikrochir Plast Chir. 1999 Sep;31(5):317-22. doi: 10.1055/s-1999-13543.
[Article in German]

Abstract

In our study, we present the data of eleven patients suffering from scarring of the median nerve, predominantly after open decompression of the carpal tunnel. Dysaesthesia in the palmar region and loss of grip strength prevented performing normal daily activities. All patients except one were relieved of the palmar discomfort and experienced an increase of grip strength allowing their return to work. The hypothenar fat flap has been shown to be a reliable source of local tissue to cover the median nerve. The sprouting of nerve fibers to the skin is prevented as well as median nerve readherence. We believe that the hypothenar fat flap provides sufficient regenerative conditions and coverage of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel in the surgical treatment of abundant scarring.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / pathology
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / surgery*
  • Cicatrix / diagnosis
  • Cicatrix / pathology
  • Cicatrix / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Median Nerve / pathology
  • Median Nerve / surgery*
  • Microsurgery / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis
  • Postoperative Complications / pathology
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery*
  • Reoperation
  • Surgical Flaps*