Carpal Tunnel Surgery

There are two basic approaches to carpal tunnel release surgery:

• Endoscopic surgery uses one or two very small incisions near your wrist to release the ligament. During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a thin, flexible scope  through the incision. The scope is equipped with a tiny camera that sends detailed, real-time video to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see the area “close up” without the need for a larger incision. This technique also uses special surgical instruments designed to be used through small incisions. In the single-incision approach, the instruments and camera are both contained on the same scope. When two incisions are used, the camera will be inserted through one incision while the instruments are inserted through the second incision.

• Open surgery is the traditional approach to carpal tunnel release, and it relies on a single, larger incision in your wrist.

Both types of carpal tunnel surgery usually are performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home shortly after your procedure, and both take about a half hour to perform. Most surgery is performed using sedation to help you sleep throughout your procedure, along with a numbing agent that’s injected into your wrist and palm areas. The sedative is administered through an IV in your arm.

What Happens After The Surgery?

After surgery, a dressing and special splint will be applied to your wrist to protect and keep it stable during the very early stages of healing. You’ll spend a little time in a recovery area where you’ll be monitored before being discharged. You’ll need to have someone drive you home, and you won’t be able to drive for 24 hours after your procedure. You’ll also need to avoid heavy use of your hand for a few weeks as the area heals. Before being discharged, you’ll receive complete instructions regarding how to care for the area and what types of activities you can perform. After a week or so, you’ll start performing gentle stretching exercises to keep the joint flexible and to promote circulation and healing.

When Can I Return To Work?

That depends on the surgical approach that was used, as well as how much you use your hand at your place of employment. Some people can return to work within one or two weeks, while others may not be able to return for six to eight weeks.

How can I tell if carpal tunnel surgery is a good choice for me?

Carpal tunnel surgery typically is performed after other methods, like splinting, corticosteroid injections and habit changes, fail to provide relief. Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can weaken your grip and make it difficult to perform activities that require your fingers, like writing or even buttoning a shirt. If you’re living in Franklin, Brentwood, or the greater Nashville area and you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, call Franklin Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine at (615) 771-1116 and schedule an evaluation today.