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Feb 03, 2025

Journal Watch: The Sonex Technique for Bilateral vs. Unilateral Carpal Tunnel Release: Efficiency and Outcomes

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a widespread condition affecting millions of individuals, often requiring surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail. The Sonex technique, a minimally invasive ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release (CTR-US), has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional surgical methods. One of the key considerations in CTR surgery is whether to treat both wrists simultaneously (bilateral) or one at a time (unilateral). A recent study by Cano et al. provides valuable insights into the long-term efficacy and safety of bilateral versus unilateral procedures using the Sonex technique (Cano et al., 2024).

Bilateral vs. Unilateral Approach: Key Findings

The study included 102 patients, with 55 (53.9%) undergoing simultaneous bilateral procedures, 42 (41.2%) receiving unilateral procedures, and five (4.9%) having staged bilateral surgeries. The results showed no significant difference in long-term outcomes between those treated bilaterally versus unilaterally. Both groups experienced substantial and sustained improvements in symptom severity, functional status, and overall patient satisfaction (Cano et al., 2024).

The Future of CTR with the Sonex Technique

The Cano et al. study reinforces the efficacy and safety of CTR-US for both bilateral and unilateral procedures, confirming that long-term outcomes are comparable regardless of the approach. The minimally invasive nature of the Sonex technique allows for faster recovery, minimal scarring, and reduced post-operative discomfort, making it a preferred option for many patients (Wang et al., 2021).

For individuals suffering from bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, the choice between simultaneous and staged procedures should be guided by individual needs, occupation, and lifestyle. With the high success rates reported for both approaches, patients and surgeons can confidently opt for the strategy that best aligns with their goals for recovery and function (Louie et al., 2013).

Advantages of the Bilateral Approach

  1. Single Recovery Period: One of the most significant benefits of simultaneous bilateral CTR-US is the ability to recover from both surgeries at once, reducing total downtime compared to staggered procedures (Atroshi et al., 2015).
  2. Consistent Symptom Relief: Patients who undergo bilateral CTR can experience simultaneous relief in both hands, avoiding prolonged discomfort and impairment in the untreated wrist (Keiner et al., 2009).
  3. Comparable Safety and Efficacy: The study found no significant difference in complication rates or the need for revision surgeries between bilateral and unilateral procedures (Nakamichi & Tachibana, 1997).
  4. Increased Patient Satisfaction: With a reported 91.2% satisfaction rate at final follow-up, the simultaneous bilateral approach proves to be a well-accepted and effective strategy for treating CTS (Cano et al., 2024).
Ultrasound images showing the Sonex device in place.
Outcomes from Cano et al (2024) paper showing similar outcomes with a bilateral and unilateral carpal tunnel release.
Table showing similar functional outcomes after a bilateral carpal tunnel release versus a unilateral carpal tunnel release.

When to Consider a Unilateral Approach

While bilateral CTR offers efficiency, there are instances where a unilateral approach may be more appropriate:

  • Severe Dominant Hand Dependence: Patients who rely heavily on one hand for daily tasks or work-related activities may prefer staged surgeries to maintain functionality (Shah et al., 2022).
  • Medical Considerations: Those with certain medical conditions or healing concerns may benefit from a staged approach to monitor recovery in one hand before proceeding with the second (Zhang et al., 2016).
  • Patient Preference: Some individuals may feel more comfortable undergoing one surgery at a time, even with the benefits of bilateral release (Fernández-de-las-Peñas et al., 2020).

Conclusion

Whether performed bilaterally or unilaterally, the Sonex technique offers an effective, minimally invasive solution for carpal tunnel syndrome. The study's findings emphasize that patients can expect significant and lasting relief, high satisfaction rates, and minimal risk of complications, making CTR-US a valuable advancement in the treatment of CTS (Cano et al., 2024).

References

  • Atroshi I, Hofer M, Larsson GU, Ranstam J. Extended follow-up of a randomized clinical trial of open vs endoscopic release surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. JAMA. 2015.
  • Cano LC, Leiby BM, Shum LC, Ward MG, Joseph AE. Clinical results of carpal tunnel release using ultrasound guidance in over 100 patients at two to six years. Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online. 2024.
  • Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Arias-Buría JL, Cleland JA, et al. Manual therapy versus surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome: 4-year follow-up from a randomized controlled trial. Phys Ther. 2020.
  • Keiner D, Gaab MR, Schroeder HW, Oertel J. Long-term follow-up of dual-portal endoscopic release of the transverse ligament in carpal tunnel syndrome: an analysis of 94 cases. Neurosurgery. 2009.
  • Louie DL, Earp BE, Collins JE, et al. Outcomes of open carpal tunnel release at a minimum of ten years. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2013.
  • Nakamichi K, Tachibana S. Ultrasonographically assisted carpal tunnel release. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 1997.
  • Shah SA, Khan F, Ejaz H, Kanth RR, Ahmed W, Qureshi Z. Comparison of minimally invasive carpal tunnel release with open carpal tunnel release. Pakistan Journal of Medical & Health Sciences. 2022.
  • Wang PH, Wu PT, Jou IM. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous carpal tunnel release: 2-year follow-up of 641 hands. J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2021.
  • Zhang X, Huang X, Wang X, Wen S, Sun J, Shao X. A randomized comparison of double small, standard, and endoscopic approaches for carpal tunnel release. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016.


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Feb 03, 2025

Journal Watch: The Sonex Technique for Bilateral vs. Unilateral Carpal Tunnel Release: Efficiency and Outcomes

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent condition requiring surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail. The Sonex technique is a minimally invasive ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release (CTR-US), and

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