Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) affects around 4-5% of the global population. The median nerve is essential for the thumb, index and middle fingers to function properly along with providing sensations. Compression of this nerve may cause

tingling or numbness mainly involving the thumb, index and middle fingers and pain, sometimes radiating up to the elbow or shoulder, and worse at night.

The most common symptoms usually occur while holding a phone or a newspaper or gripping a steering wheel. They also tend to occur at night and may disturb sleep. CTS treatment varies with the degree of pain and extremities ranging from wrist splinting, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections. In case none of the options above work, then carpal tunnel syndrome surgery is the last resort for a permanent cure.

If you have been experiencing difficulties in your index, thumb and wrists despite of treatment then it is best to consult the best neurologists or thebest plastic surgeon in India or simply search ‘orthopaedic doctor near me’.

There are different kinds of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery performed on patients.

  • One common type of carpal tunnel surgery is called a “release.” The ligament that is compressing the median nerve is cut to help relieve the pressure on the nerve and improve symptoms.
  • Another type of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery is called a “release and transfer.” The surgeon generally releases the ligament and then moves the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) out of the carpal tunnel opening.
  • The third type of carpal tunnel surgery is called a “transposition”, where one of the carpal bones in your wrist is moved to decrease the width of the carpal tunnel and relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Newer protocols of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery discovered in 2017 have helped several patients improve symptoms and achieve faster recovery.

Endoscopic CTR

This surgical procedure is less invasive than open CTR, giving the surgeon a chance to clearly see the TCL and move its position. It also provides the scope of a faster postoperative recovery for many patients.

Ultrasound-guided CTR

During ultrasound-guided CTR (USCTR), the skilled operator uses commonly available ultrasound (US) equipment to visualise the contents of the carpal tunnel, place the device and cut the TCL.

CTS surgery is generally performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the needs of the patient and the surgeon’s preferences. Patients may need physical therapy, an adequate resting period and necessary medications to help regain full use of their hands. It usually takes four to six weeks for carpal tunnel symptoms to completely resolve after carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

Since surgical procedures can be risky, invasive or cause doubts or inhibitions in our minds, it is always wise to seek a second opinion. Getting a medical second opinion from us is easy, convenient, affordable and completely virtual. You have a chance to ask questions to the best neurologists or the best plastic surgeon in India. While searching for ‘orthopaedic doctor near me, you get a chance to consult accomplished medical professionals who help you understand the options and help in deciding whether to proceed with a potentially risky therapy/ surgery or not. We help in restoring your confidence about the fact that the treatment plan recommended is appropriate. Make informed decisions about your health with us at SeekMed.