What is a Carpal Tunnel Release?

Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that decompresses a pinched median nerve and relieves shooting pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers commonly associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

A carpal tunnel release is performed when nonsurgical treatment options do not relieve symptoms. Local anesthesia and a mild sedative are used to make the patient as relaxed and comfortable as possible during the 30-45 minute procedure. Procedure steps include the following:

• A tiny wrist incision is made
• Muscles and tendons are carefully moved to view the transverse carpal ligament
• A tiny blade is used to cut the ligament and decompress the nerve

After the incision is carefully closed and dressed, the wrist and hand are placed in a soft dressing for comfort purposes. The patient goes home after they are awake and alert. Results are seen very quickly because the nerve is no longer pinched after surgery.

What Does a Carpal Tunnel Release Treat?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common orthopedic condition that causes shooting pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring finger. CTS occurs when the transverse carpal wrist ligament presses against the underlying median nerve. Common causes of CTS are:

• Aging
• Overuse (manual labor, jobs that involve using the hands)
• Medical conditions (diabetes, osteoarthritis)

Patients who experience the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome should make an appointment with us. A medical history and physical examination will be used to help make an accurate diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.