Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the medical condition where the patient is experiencing increased pressure on the nerve at the front of the wrist.

Surgery is not always necessary with this complaint and often for less severe cases simply wearing a support at night tends to help greatly.

The main benefit of surgery in more serious cases is that it relieves the pain and numbness in the hand and wrist. With the use of a local anaesthetic you will be allowed home on the same day as the procedure, however we advise for a family member or friend to collect you from the hospital because of the area of the surgery and difficulty in driving.

The operation will take approximately half an hour and will involve your surgeon making a small cut in the palm of the hand. The ligament within the palm will then be cut to release the pressure on the nerve.

We advise that you keep the hand raised for the first couple of days after the procedure and continue to undertake hand and finger exercises to prevent stiffness following surgery.

You may return to work as and when you feel fit and regular exercise should be maintained to return to complete fitness as soon as possible.

This procedure will normally be covered by your medical insurance policy but patients are advised to check with their provider prior to any treatment.

If you are paying for your own treatment all costs will be discussed and explained prior to any treatment taking place. This will be confirmed in writing along with any surgeon fees, anaesthetist fees and hospital charges prior to admission.