Carpal tunnel release is a common hand operation that divides the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, treating numbness, tingling and night-time pain in the thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger. It can be performed through a small open palmar incision or endoscopically, usually under local anaesthetic as a day case. Night symptoms typically improve within days, though long-standing numbness may take months to recover.
Duration
20 – 45 min
Recovery
2 – 6 weeks
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia or regional block or general anaesthesia
Setting
Day surgery
Splint for 1–2 weeks; hand therapy exercises from week 1; return to desk work in 1–2 weeks; return to manual work in 4–6 weeks.
Relief of numbness, tingling and night pain; improved grip strength; symptoms resolve gradually over weeks to months.
Common Questions
Book a consultation with Dr Ravin Patel to discuss your goals and find out if this procedure is right for you.