Comparative analysis of suture choice in open bilateral carpal tunnel surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: This randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared outcomes of absorbable and non-absorbable sutures for skin closure in open carpal tunnel decompression.

Methods: Patients diagnosed with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome proceeding to staged open carpal decompression were invited to participate in the trial. Patients elected left or right hand for the first operation and were randomized to receive Prolene (non-absorbable) or Vicryl Rapide (absorbable) first, and the alternative suture to the contralateral side.