Carpal Tunnel Release

This nerve decompression procedure is usually done for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome who continue to have symptoms despite non-surgical treatments such as splints, medicines, or physiotherapy.

The surgery can be performed as a daycare procedure or may require a short hospital stay. The patient is admitted a few hours before surgery and a short duration of fasting may be required as determined by the surgeon. The procedure is done as follows:

• Local anaesthesia (axillary block or a wrist block) or general anaesthesia may be administered.
• The surgeon makes a small cut (around 1 inch) on the palm side of the wrist.
• The transverse carpal ligament is carefully cut to decompress the median nerve, eliminating the pressure put on this nerve.
• The surgeon checks the nerve to make sure it has been fully released.
• In some cases, the surgery may be performed using an endoscope (keyhole surgery).
   

Carpal tunnel release usually takes about 30–60 minutes, but the exact time may vary depending on the surgical technique used and the patient’s condition.

Before surgery, the doctor will perform a detailed examination and discuss the risks and benefits with the patient:

• Blood tests are required to assess the patient’s general health.
• Anti-inflammatory medications and blood thinners are usually discontinued 5–7 days prior to surgery.
• Fasting for a few hours before the procedure may be advised by the surgeon.

Carpal tunnel release is generally safe, but as with any surgery, there may be some risks. These include:

• Injury to surrounding tissues or nerves.
• Infection at the surgical site.
• Stiffness or weakness in the wrist or hand.

After surgery, most patients notice an improvement in symptoms. Recovery is gradual and may take several weeks to months.

• Pain medicines, ice packs, and wound care area advised in the early days.
• Keeping the hand elevated helps reduce swelling.
• Strenuous activities involving the hand and wrist should be avoided for 2-4 weeks
• Ice packs can be used to reduce swelling
• Physiotherapy or exercises may be recommended to restore movement and strength.

Although most patients experience significant relief from pain, numbness, and tingling after the surgery. Improvement in hand strength and functionality is typically gradual with full recovery taking several weeks to months. Light activities may be resumed within 1–2 weeks, while full recovery may take 6–12 weeks, depending on the patient’s condition after the surgery.