If You Have Surgery
Surgery may be done if your CTS symptoms become severe. Or, you may have surgery if no other treatment brings relief. There are two types of CTS procedures. You will be told about the one you will have. You'll also be instructed how to prepare for it.
Preparing for Surgery
- In the weeks before surgery, do your best to quit smoking. Quitting can limit problems after surgery. It may even help speed healing.
- Tell your doctor about medications you take. This includes aspirin or other blood thinners.
- You will be told about the type of anesthetic (medication to prevent feeling pain) given during surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything after the midnight before surgery, or as directed.
Possible Risks
Your surgeon will discuss the possible risks of carpal tunnel surgery. Although very rare, they include the following:
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels
- Unrelieved symptoms
- Infection
Types of Surgery
Two types of surgery -- open and endoscopic -- are used to treat CTS. No matter which one you have, the goal remains the same: Your surgeon will relieve pressure on the median nerve. To do this, the transverse carpal ligament is cut (released). Surgery for CTS often takes about an hour.
Open Surgery
With open surgery, your surgeon makes one incision in your palm. Then he or she releases the transverse carpal ligament. Standard surgical tools are used.
Endoscopic Surgery
With endoscopic surgery, one or two small incisions may be made in your hand. A scope (with a very small camera attached) and tools are inserted under the transverse carpal ligament. The surgeon then operates while watching images on a video screen.
When to Call the Surgeon
Call your surgeon if you notice any of the following:
- White or pale-blue hand or nails (You pinch your skin or nails and the color doesn't return.)
- Pain that is not relieved by prescribed medication
- Loss of sensation or excess swelling in hand or fingers
- Fever over 101°F
This content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem. © 1990, 1995, 1998, 2000 The StayWell Company, 1100 Grundy Lane, San Bruno, CA 94066-3030. www.krames.com 800-333-3032. All right reserved.