Carpal Tunnel Release

WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE?

Carpal Tunnel Release is an outpatient surgery to relieve pressure placed on the median nerve of the wrist. Three nerves control the hand and may become pinched, leading to numbness and weakness of the hand. The most commonly pinched is the median nerve in a space that is called the carpal tunnel.

REASON FOR THE PROCEDURE

Pain, tingling, numbness and weakness in the hand, that has not been relieved by medicine or bracing, is the most common reason for this surgery. Nerve conduction testing may also be required before surgery to determine the extent of the injury.

THE PROCEDURE

A 10-20-minute outpatient procedure is all that is required. A ½ inch incision is made in the palm of the hand and the carpal ligament is cut releasing the pressure on the nerve. After surgery, the ligament heals, leaving extra space for the nerve. Recovery may be immediate or take up to six months, depending upon the extent of the nerve injury.

POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Carpal Tunnel Release is a very safe operation with minimal anesthesia and surgical risks. Rare infections at the incision site can occur.