Face Off: Open Versus Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)—a compressive neuropathy resulting in numbness and paresthesia—is recognized as one of the most common hand disorders. CTS manifests most commonly in middle-aged and elderly women, with a general population prevalence of 50 cases per 1,000 subjects. Carpal tunnel release (CTR) has become the most common hand and wrist procedure performed in the United States, with an estimated 400,000 patients undergoing open or endoscopic surgery every year.

Clearing the "Final Hurdles" to Getting Hired

Eeric Truumees, MD

This month's issue of features an excellent article on finding a job as an orthopaedic surgeon (see "Tips for Evaluating and Obtaining Employment.") by and Alan W. Davis, MD. Although the piece is directed mainly at residents and fellows, I hope everyone reads it because it provides an excellent overview of the current landscape in terms of practice opportunities. I suspect, for many of you, this landscape has changed quite a bit since you graduated from residency.

Preventing Common Summer Injuries

Alan S. Hilibrand, MD

In May, as our thoughts turn to summer and warmer weather, we are also reminded of the orthopaedic injuries that frequently occur this time of year. Fortunately, the Academy offers numerous resources, information, and tips to help orthopaedic surgeons educate their patients and communities about potential summer hazards—from bicycles and lawnmowers to distracted walking and driving.

Contemplating Place and Power

Richard Gross, MD

More years ago than I care to calculate, I was among a group of college freshmen nearing the end of a fraternity "hell night." We were each given a candle and told to present it to one of the fraternity brothers assembled around us. Each of the fraternity brothers described a choice to which we could commit our efforts. I remember only one, which was actually one of the wrong choices, "place and power."