Offering Successful Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery and Treatment
The Center for Hand Surgery at University Hospitals Department of Plastic Surgery in Cleveland, Ohio, offers the most medically effective carpal tunnel syndrome surgery and treatment.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is compressed as it passes through an opening from the wrist to the hand called the carpal tunnel. Since the median nerve provides sensory and motor functions to the thumb and three middle fingers, many debilitating and painful symptoms may result from overuse.
Patient History and Examination
Doctors at the Center for Hand Surgery at University Hospitals can make a carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis after a complete physical examination and review of medical history.
UH utilizes electrodiagnostic testing, the use of which is endorsed by the American Academy of Neurology, the American Association of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and the American Academy of Physical Medicine to get an accurate carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis. Electrodiagnostic tests involve the stimulation of muscles and nerves in the hand.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment at the Center for Hand Surgery at UH may include:
- Splinting of the hand to help prevent wrist movement and decrease the compression of the nerves inside the tunnel
- Using oral or injected anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the swelling
- Having surgery to relieve compression on the nerves in the carpal tunnel
- Making workplace or ergonomic changes
Peripheral Nerve Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Peripheral nerve surgery is used for carpal tunnel syndrome and is performed under local or general anesthesia in an outpatient location at UH. Our peripheral nerve surgeons have experience working with nerves and understand how nerves act and how they respond. The highly trained surgeons understand both simple and complex nerve problems in both healthy and sick patients. Most importantly, the peripheral nerve surgeons at UH are compassionate medical specialists who really listen to the patient needs for improved function.
Side Effects and Recovery
After carpal tunnel syndrome surgery, the wrist may be immobilized in a large dressing and wrist brace to help stabilize the area. The splint is usually worn continuously for the first two weeks after the surgery, but then is used intermittently for the next month or so.
There is a moderate degree of pain in the hand after carpal tunnel syndrome surgery, which is usually controlled with pain medications taken orally. The surgeon may also have the patient keep the affected hand elevated while sleeping at night.
The length of recovery varies for each patient. If the nerve has been compressed for a long period of time, recovery may take longer.
Movement of the fingers and wrist is encouraged a few days following carpal tunnel syndrome surgery to help prevent stiffness.