This page will give you information about carpal tunnel release. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition where there is increased pressure on a nerve that crosses the front of your wrist (the median nerve).
The median nerve runs through a tight tunnel, together with the tendons that bend your fingers.
What are the Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
You should get relief from pain and numbness in your hand.
The Procedure
What Does the Operation Involve?
The operation can usually be performed under a local anaesthetic and usually takes about 20 minutes.
Your surgeon will make a small cut on the palm of your hand. They will cut the tight ligament (called the flexor retinaculum) that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel (see figure 1). This stops the nerve being compressed.
What Complications Can Happen?
General Complications
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection of the surgical site (wound)
- Scarring
Specific Complications
- Numbness in your thumb, index and middle fingers
- Tenderness of the scar
- Aching in your wrist
- Return of numbness and pain
- Severe pain, stiffness and loss of use of your hand (complex regional pain syndrome)
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