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An Overview for Understanding Your Carpal-Tunnel Syndrome and the Surgical Options That Can Treat It

15 August 2016 by Joann Dunn

If you have been diagnosed with carpal-tunnel syndrome (CTS), but the exercises and brace prescribed by your physician have not effectively addressed your symptoms, your orthopedic surgeon may suggest surgical intervention. You may be surprised to learn that there is more than one type of surgery for this unfortunate health challenge. It is important to note that both of the primary types of surgery for CTS have similar success rates, so you should be aware of the following information when choosing which surgery you should have.

 Understanding Carpal-Tunnel Syndrome

If you have experienced numbness or intense pain in one or both hands when performing everyday activities like typing or cleaning, you may have been diagnosed with carpal-tunnel syndrome. While limited movements, braces, splints and other modifications are sufficient for many sufferers, surgery may be needed if those treatment options do not provide the necessary relief. 

Carpal-tunnel syndrome occurs as the result of a pinched nerve in the small area on the inside of your wrist. Carpal-tunnel syndrome bears its name because the affected area is known as the carpal tunnel. That part of your wrist exists to provide protection to the primary nerve and assorted tendons that allow your fingers to move as they should. Unfortunately, this disorder impacts the lives and functionality of more than 250,000 people in the United States each year, so you are not alone in your suffering.

Opting for Open Release Surgery

Open-release surgery is a common procedure that often provides quick relief. You may be able to undergo your surgery as an outpatient procedure. It is done by cutting the carpal ligament, thus separating it from the median nerve and reducing the associated pressure.

When that pressure is eliminated, your pain, swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms will frequently diminish. However, some patients have reported that full relief of all pain takes several months.

Choosing Endoscopic Surgery for CTS

Endoscopic surgery is very similar to the open-release procedure, except that the incision is smaller. In addition, your orthopedic surgeon will use a small device with an attached camera to determine the most appropriate area to access within the wrist.

There will then be a smaller incision, and you will have a correspondingly reduced recovery time. As a result, if you need to minimize the amount of time you spend away from work, home, or familial responsibilities, an endoscopic procedure may be recommended.

In conclusion, surgery for carpal-tunnel syndrome may be necessary when less invasive treatment has failed. Therefore, the information provided above will be very helpful when you and your orthopedic surgeon are deciding which type of surgery will best meet your needs. Visit sites such as http://www.towncenterorthopaedics.com to find a healthcare provider near you. 

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