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The 'yellow fat sign' - a reliable indicator of the completeness of carpal tunnel release

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Abstract

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the commonest nerve compression syndrome and longitudinal division of the transverse carpal ligament to release the median nerve remains one of the most commonly performed procedures. This may be undertaken by plastic, orthopaedic, general or neurosurgeons. However, incomplete division of this ligament remains a cause of persistent symptoms. In this paper we draw attention to an anatomical landmark at the distal end of the tunnel, visualisation of which indicates complete release.

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Ragbir, M., Devaraj, V.S. & Evans, D. The 'yellow fat sign' - a reliable indicator of the completeness of carpal tunnel release. Eur J Plast Surg 20, 212–213 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01152195

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01152195

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