Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome most often affects women and its causes are typically physiological, anatomical or may be the result of daily activities. Inflammation, diabetic neuropathy, hypothyroidism and obesity are the most common physiological causes. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also be caused by repeated activities that require bending straightening the wrist and fingers over a long period of time. The most common symptoms include numbness, tingling sensation in thumbs, index and middle finger, night hand aches and swelling of the hands. As the disease progresses, performing precise tasks becomes increasingly challenging and in extreme cases, impossible. An effective treatment method for these disorders is carpal tunnel surgery.

A physical examination that precedes surgery enables the doctor to become familiar with the patient’s state of health, informs the patient about the course of the surgery and prescribe a series of diagnostic tests. Patients must cure all inflammations in the mouth prior surgery and must refrain from eating and drinking six hours before surgery – the surgery is performed on an empty stomach applying local or general anesthesia. It involves a small incision in the wrist, then cutting the band of fibrous tissue that compresses the nerve. Next, the wound is closed with stitches that are removed after about two weeks.

Following surgery, swelling and pain may be experienced, but can be reduced with the help of over the counter pain killers. It is advisable to wear a wrist sling for the first few days and exercise regularly to counteract finger stiffness.