Carpal tunnel decompression using the limited one incision technique in carpal tunnel syndrome is difficult to evaluate in terms of postoperative improvement and complications. We analyzed the clinical efficacy by defining the effect of decompression after carpal tunnel release using the modified limited proximal one-incision technique.

Symptoms and signs (pain, paresthesia, Phalen test and Tinel sign) were analyzed in 35 patients, 63 hands, which were followed up for a year or more, among patients who had been operated upon using the limited proximal one-incision technique from January, 1994 to June, 1999.

Pain was relieved two weeks after the operation. Paresthesia, two-point discrimination, Phalen test, and Tinel sign improved progressively postoperativley. According to the Cseuz criteria, 53 hands (84%) were estimated to degreesgood "12 months after operation.

The carpal tunnel can be released using a limited proximal one-incision technique, has few complications and produces results comparable with standard classical decompression or the endoscopic carpal tunnel release. Patient satisfaction was good at 12 months postoperatively. We suggest that carpal tunnel syndrome requires long-term follow-up and analysis.