Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be a debilitating condition, affecting your ability to perform everyday tasks due to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Learn more about our carpal tunnel release procedure and how it can help you regain your quality of life.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Northeastern Ohio, we offer advanced carpal tunnel release surgery to alleviate these symptoms and restore hand function. If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel, our experienced team is here to provide the highest standard of care. Contact us today!

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve at the wrist. The wrist bones form the bottom of the carpal tunnel and the transverse carpal ligament forms the top.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

While many cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can improve with nonsurgical treatments such as using wrist splints and anti-inflammatory medication, sometimes surgery is necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve and restore normal function.

A man with carpal tunnel syndrome with pain in his hand in Chardon, Ohio.

What is Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery?

Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting through the ligament that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel, which creates more room for the median nerve and tendons passing through the tunnel. This procedure generally improves pain and function, allowing you to return to your normal activities.

How to Prepare for Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery

To prepare for carpal tunnel release surgery, follow these guidelines:

Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure

Carpal tunnel release is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day if all goes well. There are three types of carpal tunnel release surgery offered by our hand, wrist and elbow specialists: open release, endoscopic release, and ultrasound-guided release.

Open Release Surgery

In open-release surgery, the surgeon makes about a 2-inch cut on the wrist and uses common surgical tools to cut the transverse carpal ligament, enlarging the carpal tunnel.

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release

In endoscopic surgery, a thin, flexible tube containing a camera is inserted into the wrist through a small incision. The camera guides the surgeon as they use thin tools to cut the transverse carpal ligament through another small cut.

Ultrasound-Guided Carpal Tunnel Release

In ultrasound-guided surgery, the surgeon uses an ultrasound machine to position a small probe in the carpal tunnel next to the median nerve. The ultrasound device guides the surgeon to the correct placement before cutting the transverse carpal ligament.

General Steps in Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery

Your surgeon will generally follow these steps during the procedure:

  1. You will usually be given a local anesthetic to numb the hand and wrist.
  2. The surgeon will make the necessary incisions and cut the transverse carpal ligament to enlarge the carpal tunnel.
  3. The surgeon will stitch up the incisions.
  4. Your hand and wrist will either be placed in a splint or heavily bandaged to prevent movement.
  5. After the surgery, you’ll be monitored for a short time before being allowed to go home. In rare cases, or if there are complications, you may need to stay overnight.

Complications of Carpal Tunnel Surgery

As with any surgery, carpal tunnel release comes with potential risks. Complications of carpal tunnel release include the following:

Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure. You may have additional risks depending on your specific medical condition.

Recovery from Carpal Tunnel Release

For 1 to 2 weeks, your wrist will likely be in a heavy bandage or a splint. You will be encouraged to move your fingers to help prevent stiffness. After 2 weeks, you need to return to have the bandage or splint removed.

Any pain in your hand and wrist following surgery can be managed with oral pain medications that you can get without a prescription. Keeping the affected hand elevated above your heart while sleeping will help to reduce swelling.

Physical Therapy

Once the splint is removed, you’ll likely begin a physical therapy program. Your physical therapist will teach you motion exercises that you can do at home. These will help improve the movement of your wrist and hand, speed up the healing process, and strengthen the area.

Activity Adjustments

Until you have fully recovered, you may need to adjust your job duties or take time off work. You may also still need to use a splint or brace during certain activities. The recovery period can vary from a few days to a few months.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, don’t wait to seek help. Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in  Chardon and Middlefield, OH, offers expert carpal tunnel release surgery to relieve your pain and restore function. Our team of specialists will guide you through the process from diagnosis to recovery, ensuring you receive the best care possible.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief from carpal tunnel syndrome! Our dedicated team is here to help you regain your quality of life and get back to doing the things you love.

Physicians

Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Specialists