A 45-year-old woman is evaluated for numbness and painful tingling of the right hand. The symptoms began 2 months ago and progressed over this time. The symptoms tend to worsen at night. She has noticed that house chores now are more difficult due to hand achiness and burning sensation. Physical examination shows decreased strength of thumb opposition and thenar eminence atrophy. Conservative treatment has been attempted with no significant effect, and she is now referred for surgery. During surgery, incision of which of the following structures is most likely to improve this patient's symptoms?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: The carpal tunnel is an anatomical space formed between the carpal bones and the flexor retinaculum. Carpal tunnel syndrome results from the increased pressure within the carpal tunnel, damaging the median nerve. Surgical decompression is done through a longitudinal incision in the flexor retinaculum.

A 45-Year-Old Woman Is Evaluated for Numbness and Painful Tingling