Treatment - Carpal tunnel surgery
Carpal tunnel surgery, also known as carpal tunnel release or carpal tunnel release surgery, is a procedure we use to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition involves a compression of the hand’s median nerve, which controls feeling in and movement of the thumb and the three middle fingers (all but the pinky finger).
If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, we understand the challenges and frustrations that can come with it. Our hand surgery experts provide comprehensive care to patients from throughout West Virginia and beyond. We’ll work with you to understand your concerns and provide the care you need.
Get answers to your questions about carpal tunnel surgery
Reach out to our orthopedic team for more information.
What types of carpal tunnel surgery are available?
Our surgeons offer both endoscopic and traditional open surgical options for carpal tunnel surgery. In endoscopic surgery, your surgeon will use an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) to perform the surgery. The surgeon will make one or two small incisions (cuts) in your hand or wrist and insert the endoscope, as well as tiny surgical instruments to cut the ligament pressing on your hand’s median nerve. In traditional open surgery, your surgeon will make a larger incision along the palm of your hand to expose the ligament and cut it.
In both cases, the cut ligament will gradually grow back together. However, it will allow more room for the median nerve.
What can I expect after carpal tunnel surgery?
Carpal tunnel surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, so you likely will be able to go home the same day of your surgery. You’ll have stitches at the incision site(s), as well as a splint or heavy bandage to keep you from moving your wrist. You’ll wear this splint or bandage for one or two weeks.
Once your care team removes your splint or bandage, you’ll probably begin a physical therapy program. This program may last several weeks or months. Our physical therapy team (may not be our team – pt can choose to get PT elsewhere) will work with you to strengthen your wrist and hand and improve your range of motion.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Common carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:
- Burning or tingling in the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers
- Pain or numbness in one or both hands
- “Pins and needles” feeling in the fingers
- Swollen feeling in the fingers
- Weakness when gripping objects with one or both hands
- Pain or numbness that is worse at night, interrupting sleep
What nonsurgical treatments are available for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Some of the nonsurgical treatment options your provider may recommend include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication. These may be oral (tablets/pills) or injections into the carpal tunnel space. These may reduce the swelling.
- Splinting your hand. This helps keep your wrist from moving. It also eases the compression of the nerves inside the tunnel.
- Worksite changes. Changing the position of your computer keyboard or making other ergonomic changes can help ease symptoms.
Find relief for your carpal tunnel syndrome
Our team of hand experts is ready to help.