What is carpal tunnel surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling or pain in the hand. It is a common condition that occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist that narrows the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on one side of the wrist. The nerve controls movement in the thumb and fingers except the little finger. Carpal tunnel surgery is indicated to correct long-standing cases of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Why is carpal tunnel surgery performed?
Carpal tunnel syndrome often goes away on its own or with therapy, but in some cases symptoms may persist for a long time and the condition may worsen. The muscles of the hand and wrist may weaken and everyday movements, such as gripping or grasping, may become more difficult to perform. Surgery is indicated in long-standing cases of the syndrome when other treatment methods have been tried and failed.
It is a common condition that occurs due to the compression of the median nerve
in the wrist that reduces the carpal tunnel.
What does it consist of?
Carpal tunnel surgery is often performed as open surgery or endoscopic surgery.
- In open surgery, a larger cut is made and recovery time is usually longer.
- In endoscopic surgery, a smaller cut is made and a small tiny camera is inserted to help guide the surgeon as he or she cuts into the joint and ligament.
However, in both cases the ligament around the carpal tunnel is cut which relieves pressure around the median nerve. After surgery, the ligament is pulled back together, but the median nerve has more room to pass through it, which permanently relieves the compression.
How to prepare for it?
Before the procedure, the surgeon will explain exactly what type of procedure he or she will perform and what to expect. Medication will also be discussed and blood thinning medications should be avoided as they can increase bleeding during surgery. The patient should be accompanied by someone to pick him/her up from the hospital as he/she will not be able to drive after surgery.
Postoperative care
After the operation, the wrist and surrounding area will be sore with some swelling and stiffness. A bandage will be applied and kept on for 1 to 2 weeks. Some over-the-counter medications may help relieve pain. During the recovery period, the surgeon will recommend exercises. These help prevent the fingers from stiffening, but it is important to avoid straining them. In the period directly following surgery (2 weeks after), care should be taken to be sure to do only light tasks and movements. Return to normal movement may be slow over time. It usually takes about 10-12 weeks to fully regain strength.