Dr Jun Kwon
PLASTIC SURGEON
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the median nerve being squashed between the tendons in the carpal tunnel and the thick transvers carpal ligament forming the roof of the carpal tunnel. The squashing of the nerve reduces the blood flow around the nerve, which causes pins and needles. If left untreated, there may be long term numbness of the thumb, index, middle and ring finger, and even weakness and wasting of the muscles of the thumb (thenar eminence).
The operation for carpal tunnel syndrome releases the pressure on the nerve by cutting the ligament that is squashing it. This allows better blood flow around the nerve, improving the symptoms.
What does surgery involve?
The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic (a numbing injection) with you awake. The procedure takes about 30 minutes. You should be able to go home the same day. Do not drive to the hospital yourself. You will need a responsible adult to pick you up after your surgery.
What is the recovery period?
Usually the surgery is not very painful, but this varies from person to person. Simple pain relief such as Paracetamol should help with the discomfort. You will initially have a soft bandage around your hand for 5 days after surgery, which must stay dry.
After you remove the bandage, there will be a water resistant tape over the incision, which can get wet. Usually dissolving sutures are used, which take about 2 weeks to dissolve.
We advise 7-10 days off work, longer if you do physical work (up to 4 weeks). You may gradually return to the gym at 4 weeks after surgery. The swelling will take 3-4 months to fully settle. The scar may be sensitive for some time, we encourage massage and moisturisation of the scar to help it recover sooner.
What are the risks?
Occasionally, relief of the nerve compression around the wrist can reveal nerve compressions higher up, this is called a double crush syndrome.
The scar on the hand may be sensitive, and this may require some after care by the patient to help it settle nicely, such as massage, moisturisation and taping.
With any surgery, there are risks associated with a carpal tunnel release, your surgeon will discuss these in detail at the time of your consultation.
What are the costs?
A carpal tunnel release under local anaesthetic on one hand is $3200.
A personalised quote will be provided after your consultation with Dr Kwon.