Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Overview, purpose, steps, and risks.

Carpal tunnel is a medical condition where the carpal ligament applies pressure onto the median nerve, which is the same nerve that allows blood flow to the hand, thumb, and fingers. The pressure applied would cause numbness, tingling and weakness due to lack of blood flow.

Carpal tunnel surgery is used to treat and potentially completely heal carpal tunnel syndrome. With the immense pain it causes, it may leave an impact on individual's day to day life.

The surgery is very simple and efficient. It does not pose many risks, nerve damage caused by carpal tunnel release occurs in less than 1 out of 100 surgeries, which is less than 1%. However, a small risk for the median nerve and surrounding tissues to be damaged is posed. On the other hand, local anesthetics also pose a risk for some individuals.

Potential risks caused by carpal tunnel release or decompression surgery include:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Injury to the median nerve and other nerves that branch out of it

• Injury to nearby blood vessels

• Pain and discomfort along the cut on the patient's hand

• Stiffness in the hand

• Swelling (Easily healed by elevating the hand)

• A noticeable scar (mainly after the operation, slowly fades)

• A tender feeling at the place where the surgery was done (feeling fades after a few months)

• Weakened grip (should return to normal as the hand gradually heals)

Recovery time for patients vary, as it can take several weeks up to several months to completely heal. However, if the compression has already been happening for a long time period, then it may take longer to heal, possibly up to a year.

Steps for the carpal tunnel decompression surgery:

1. Local anesthetics is to be inserted through a syringe near the wrist to numb the area and preform the procedure in a comfortable manner for the patient.

2. An incision is made on the palm of the hand near the wrist, about 2 inches in length in order to reach the transverse carpal ligament (the roof of the carpal ligament)

3. The transverse carpal ligament is cut to enlarge the carpal tunnel, releasing the pressure that is applied on the median nerve.

4. The initial incision is closed with stiches, then a pressurized bandage is applied over the stitches to support the wrist and hand, allowing rapid recovery.