Surgery is always the last option for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Generally doctors will resort to surgery only when other forms of treatments have failed. One of the most common forms of surgery done to correct the symptoms of CTS is carpal tunnel release. This procedure is usually recommended to patients with severe cases of CTS. Some severe cases do not respond properly with non-surgical and natural treatments leaving the patient with no other option but surgery.
Carpal tunnel release is done by placing 1-2 small incision over the palm of the affected hand. The surgeon will then cut loose the carpal ligament to release tension on the nerve that passes through it, inflamed tissue surrounding the ligament is also removed. Closing of the incision is only done over the carpal ligament leaving the carpal tunnel exposed. The skin and the surrounding tissue will then be sutured; results are normally quite impressive.
There are two types of carpal tunnel release surgery – open release and endoscopic. Open release is the most common type used, done under local anesthesia the surgeon will place incision to correct carpal tunnel syndrome. Endoscopic surgery minimizes the tendency of discomfort after surgery. It allows faster recovery as compares to an open release surgery. The operation involves the use of a monitor and camera attached to a tube which serves as a guide while initiating the operation.
Surgeons will require a series of test before the surgery. A test called electromyography is often necessary. It is used to assess the electrical activity within the median nerve. Once an anomaly is noted, surgery might be enforced.
Carpal Tunnel release is done on an out-patient basis. It means that after the procedure the patient can recover at home, no need to be hospitalized. There is certain pre-operative procedures that you will be instructed to do prior the day of the surgery. These procedures should strictly be followed as instructed since this is a preliminary preparation for the surgery. Patients who are scheduled for surgery will be required not take in food or water for 8 hours prior the surgery. Also, you will be told not to drive after the surgery since anesthesia will be used. Be sure that someone will accompany you.
After the surgery, patients should expect pain and swelling on the operated area. Don’t be alarmed since this is normal the surgeon will most likely prescribe analgesics for pain. Swelling usually occurs at the base of the palm that could last for 12-16 weeks. An occasional tingling sensation may be experienced. Pain is improved once swelling subsided.
Full recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery can usually take months. Post-operative patients can also be at risk for infection therefore antibiotics might be given. Make sure to follow the surgeon's instructions to avoid complications. A little discomfort would not hurt if it will cure carpal tunnel syndrome. Surgery is a good bargain if it will give out a desirable outcome.
Carpal tunnel release is done by placing 1-2 small incision over the palm of the affected hand. The surgeon will then cut loose the carpal ligament to release tension on the nerve that passes through it, inflamed tissue surrounding the ligament is also removed. Closing of the incision is only done over the carpal ligament leaving the carpal tunnel exposed. The skin and the surrounding tissue will then be sutured; results are normally quite impressive.
There are two types of carpal tunnel release surgery – open release and endoscopic. Open release is the most common type used, done under local anesthesia the surgeon will place incision to correct carpal tunnel syndrome. Endoscopic surgery minimizes the tendency of discomfort after surgery. It allows faster recovery as compares to an open release surgery. The operation involves the use of a monitor and camera attached to a tube which serves as a guide while initiating the operation.
Surgeons will require a series of test before the surgery. A test called electromyography is often necessary. It is used to assess the electrical activity within the median nerve. Once an anomaly is noted, surgery might be enforced.
Carpal Tunnel release is done on an out-patient basis. It means that after the procedure the patient can recover at home, no need to be hospitalized. There is certain pre-operative procedures that you will be instructed to do prior the day of the surgery. These procedures should strictly be followed as instructed since this is a preliminary preparation for the surgery. Patients who are scheduled for surgery will be required not take in food or water for 8 hours prior the surgery. Also, you will be told not to drive after the surgery since anesthesia will be used. Be sure that someone will accompany you.
After the surgery, patients should expect pain and swelling on the operated area. Don’t be alarmed since this is normal the surgeon will most likely prescribe analgesics for pain. Swelling usually occurs at the base of the palm that could last for 12-16 weeks. An occasional tingling sensation may be experienced. Pain is improved once swelling subsided.
Full recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery can usually take months. Post-operative patients can also be at risk for infection therefore antibiotics might be given. Make sure to follow the surgeon's instructions to avoid complications. A little discomfort would not hurt if it will cure carpal tunnel syndrome. Surgery is a good bargain if it will give out a desirable outcome.
