A severe infection following endoscopic carpal tunnel release.

A 59-year-old patient underwent endoscopic carpal tunnel release by Chow's two-portal technique. He developed a pyogenic tenosynovitis and an infection within the ulnar and radial bursae, an abscess in the middle palmar, thenar and Parona's space, and a pyogenic wrist arthritis. Surgical treatment included a wide exposure of the infected region, débridement, irrigation, application of a resorbable collagen sponge containing gentamicin, insertion of two drains and primary wound closure. The infection was brought under control and hand function restored.