Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by increased pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, can be painful and prevent you from having the ability to use your hands properly.

When this condition doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatments, carpal tunnel release surgery can help restore function and relieve pain.

Carpal tunnel release surgery on Long Island

Carpal tunnel syndrome often leads to chronic tingling, stiffness, numbness, and pain throughout the hands. If you have carpal tunnel syndrome and nonsurgical therapies haven’t been effective, it may be time to talk with a plastic surgeon about carpal tunnel repair surgery. Carpal tunnel surgery (often referred to as carpal tunnel release) can restore function, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life. You may be a candidate for carpal tunnel release surgery if:

You have had symptoms such as pain or tingling for six months or more
You have a harder time gripping or pinching objects than you have in the past
Nonsurgical treatments (such as wearing a wrist brace, performing hand and wrist stretching exercises, or changing your daily habits) haven’t relieved your symptoms

What are the symptoms?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is most often caused by the compression of the median nerve, which extends from the forearm through the carpal tunnel and into the wrist. The median nerve registers sensation throughout much of the hand, and it relays the signals that allow motor function at the base of the thumb. Several circumstances can lead to this nerve compression, including a wrist injury, rheumatoid arthritis, and repetitive stress.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

Tingling throughout the hands and fingers
Numbness in the hands and fingers
Stiffness of the fingers
A weakened grip

You should discuss your symptoms with a doctor if they persist long-term or begin to interfere with your daily activities. Without treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to irreversible nerve and muscle damage.

Two surgical options

Carpal tunnel release surgery is intended to relieve strain on the median nerve by releasing the ligament that is putting pressure on the nerve. It is usually an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthetics. The two main techniques for accomplishing this are endoscopic surgery and open surgery:

Endoscopic

In endoscopic surgery, a telescoping device with a miniature camera is used to view the inside of the carpal tunnel. This gives your surgeon a close look at the transverse carpal ligament, which is cut via tiny incisions made in the hand or wrist.

Open

Open surgery may be recommended in certain cases. Open surgery permits your surgeon to access and cut the ligament, enlarge the carpal tunnel, or free the median nerve. In open surgery, a slightly larger incision is made in the palm to provide broader access.

What results can I expect?

In most cases, the full function of the hands will return, and no symptoms will linger. In cases of severe carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery may restore function and reduce the pain, but some discomfort may remain. As you heal, the ligament tissues will grow back, but there will be sufficient remaining space for the median nerve.

What is the recovery process like?

You can begin using your hand soon after surgery, though soreness and weakness may linger for a few weeks or longer as you recover. Your plastic surgeon will recommend a recovery plan based on your condition and gradually clear you for increased activity. We use enhanced recovery protocols, which means we have a team of specialists dedicated to guiding you through the recovery process. We will provide you with detailed instructions both before and after your procedure. You will be treated with a rare level of care throughout the process.

Unparalleled experience and expertise

The plastic surgeons at Precision Medical Arts have extensive experience in relieving the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome and can help you determine the best treatment for the specifics of your condition. We prioritize one-on-one care and individualized treatment plans that are designed to treat your unique circumstances. We are known for our compassionate care, surgical expertise, and our unique recovery protocols. To learn if carpal tunnel surgery can help you, please contact Precision Medical Arts today to schedule your consultation at one of our Long Island locations.