CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE
Carpal tunnel release is a safe, reliable procedure that alleviates burning pain and stops the progression of the disease. The procedure can be done with local anesthetic only. In certain cases, I may recommend an endoscopic carpal tunnel release.
Typically a one inch incision is made in the palm that requires 3-4 stitches to close. The procedure takes about 10 minutes and a soft dressing is placed over the hand. This can be removed after 3 days and the wound can be covered with a band-aid until follow up in the office.
Night pain and numbness is typically gone by post-operative day 1 or 2 after this procedure.
REVISION CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE
If you have had a carpal tunnel release done in the past, you may need a revision carpal tunnel release. The incision for this procedure is typically longer and requires a bit more rehabilitation due to scar tissue and stiffness.
Typically a 3 to 4 inch incision is made in the palm that goes past the wrist into the forearm. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and a splint is placed over the hand after surgery. Therapy starts in 1 week and a removable splint is worn for 2 weeks total until the sutures are removed. Therapy continues until 6-8 weeks.
Night pain and numbness usually improves but the results are more unpredictable compared to a normal carpal tunnel release