Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a relatively common orthopedic condition due to the many different factors that can bring it about. In most cases, treatments like wrist braces and corticosteroids can help ease the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, but in some cases, surgery is needed. This article will provide you with information you should know before deciding on this surgery and why Treasure Valley Hospital is the right place to receive this surgery.

What is Carpal Tunnel Surgery?

Carpal tunnel surgery is a term for two different surgeries, both of which have the same end goal of cutting the ligaments around your carpal tunnel. This will take pressure off your median nerve and relieve some of your symptoms. When the ligament comes back together, there is more room for the median nerve to pass through, and you will experience fewer symptoms. Here are the two types of carpal tunnel surgery you may receive:

Open Surgery

The original carpal tunnel surgery. This surgery involves a 2-inch incision from your wrist to your palm, which the surgeon then uses to access your ligaments and complete the surgery.

Endoscopic Surgery

The newer of the two surgeries. The surgeon makes a half-inch incision in your wrist, inserting a tiny camera into the opening to guide them while they cut the ligament. The surgeon may have to make a second small incision in your arm. Either way, recovery from endoscopic surgery is often faster than traditional open surgery.

What is the Recovery Time Frame?

You will be able to go home the same day you receive carpal tunnel surgery, and you may begin to feel relief immediately, but complete healing can take anywhere from a few weeks to months. Your hand and wrist will be bandaged heavily, and the bandage will remain on for 1-2 weeks.