Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist due to compression of the median nerve. Symptoms can also include loss of dexterity, loss of strength, muscle wasting and decreased functional ability of the hand. Night time symptoms are very common and include night time numbness and night time pain. When conservative treatments like wrist splints, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections fail to alleviate symptoms, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release, also known as keyhole carpal tunnel surgery, offers a minimally invasive solution to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
What Is Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, also known as keyhole carpal tunnel surgery, involves making one or two small incisions in the wrist or palm. A tiny camera (endoscope) is inserted to visualize the transverse carpal ligament, which is then carefully divided to relieve nerve compression. This technique minimizes tissue disruption compared to traditional open surgery, leading to less postoperative pain and faster recovery. The surgery is usually done as day surgery.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Reduced Scarring and Pain: Smaller incisions result in minimal scarring and decreased postoperative discomfort.
- Faster Recovery: Patients often return to daily activities and work sooner than with open surgery.
- Lower Risk of Complications: The minimally invasive approach reduces the likelihood of infection and other surgical complications.
- Improved Cosmetic Outcomes: Smaller scars are less noticeable, which is particularly beneficial for patients concerned about aesthetics.
Post surgery care
The surgery is usually done as a day surgery procedure, so you can go home the same day. You will need a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours after the surgery.
It is possible to use your hand for light activities around the house immediately. There are no casts or splints used after surgery. There will be bandages and surgical dressings that need to be kept clean and dry.
Pain after surgery does occur. It can usually be managed with elevation of the hand, ice packs and simple pain relief like paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Prognosis
Endoscopic surgery for carpal tunnel is usually successful at relieving the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The speed of recovery of the nerve after surgery will depend on the severity of the symptoms, and the length of time the symptoms were present, before surgery. Other health conditions (including diabetes and smoking) can affect and slow the recovery. In severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, complete recovery of the nerve is not possible. This means that not all symptoms will resolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome that interfere with daily activities, and conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, endoscopic carpal tunnel release may be an appropriate option.
Yes, endoscopic carpal tunnel release offers less pain and faster recovery than open surgery.
Most patients experience mild pain only, which is managed with over the counter pain relief.
Patients return to light activities within days, and work within a few weeks.
Yes. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release is performed as a day surgery.
No. Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery can be performed in patients without health insurance.