Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery

About the Surgery

When you have carpal tunnel release surgery, the doctor makes an incision at the base of the palm of your hand. The ligament across your wrist is cut, which takes the pressure off your median nerve. This procedure is done as an outpatient surgery and you will go home the same day with a splinted wrist in a bulky dressing.

Preparing for Surgery

You will have pre-admission testing done before your surgery to ensure that you are healthy enough for the planned procedure. Testing may include lab work, an EKG and a chest x-ray.

Anti-inflammatory medications, aspirin, and blood-thinning medications should be discontinued one week before your surgery. These medications affect your blood clotting factors and could increase your risk for bleeding.

What to Expect After Surgery

You will find a bulky hard splint on your wrist and hand, and an IV in your opposite arm to replace your fluids. You will be in the recovery room after surgery until your vital signs are stable and you are awake.

Recovery Period

Your recovery time will vary depending on the degree of nerve damage caused by the compression. Nerves typically regenerate an inch per month, so recovery may take 4-6 months. If nerve damage is severe the nerve may be irreparable, but surgery will prevent further nerve damage.

Returning to Work

Patients usually return to work approximately 3 days after their surgery with the restriction of using only their non-affected hand. You should not lift more than 5 lbs. or do any repetitive gripping, and you should avoid heavy use of your surgical hand for 4 weeks after your surgery. After 4 weeks you may return to regular duties.

Patient Education Sheets

For additional information about treatment, we have included this complete patient eduction sheet as a pdf to view, download and print: