# Carpal Tunnel Surgery (Carpal Tunnel Release)

> Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the **median nerve** in the carpal tunnel

- Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/carpal-tunnel-syndrome
- Category: [Hand Surgery](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/hand-surgery)
- Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md
- Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer


## Overview

**Carpal Tunnel Syndrome** is a common condition that causes pain, tingling and numbness in the hand and arm. This condition occurs when one of the major nerves – the **median nerve** – from the wrist to the hand gets squeezed or compressed.

## The procedure

In some cases, surgery is not required, in which case wrist braces and corticosteroids can help. When surgery is required, there are two main options to choose from: **open** and **endoscopic**. In both cases, the surgeon will cut the ligament around the carpal tunnel to relieve the pressure around the median nerve.

## Preparation

- **Timeline:** **1-2 weeks** before surgery

### Medical tests

- **Blood work** if indicated
- **ECG** if over 50 or with cardiac history
- Medical clearance for chronic conditions

### Medications

#### Medications to discuss stopping

- **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **1-2 weeks** prior (with cardiologist approval if applicable)
- **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen) **1 week** prior
- **Stop** herbal supplements **1 week** prior

#### Medications to continue

- **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky**
- Diabetics: discuss glucose management during surgery

### Lifestyle

- **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **3 weeks** before surgery - critical for hand wound healing

- **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery

- **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery

### Arrangements

- **Arrange** transportation - you cannot drive with hand bandaged
- **Arrange** help at home for **3-7 days** (difficulty with daily tasks)
- **Prepare** one-handed meal options and setup
- **Set up** sleeping area with hand elevation pillows
- **Complete** work tasks requiring two hands before surgery
- **Arrange** time off work (**1-4 weeks** depending on job)

## Recovery and aftercare

You are likely to feel relief from your symptoms soon after your surgery, however, the recovery period could be anything from **2 weeks** to several months depending on the surgery.

## Expected results

Most patients experience **immediate relief** from symptoms. The long-term outcome is usually excellent with proper post-operative care.

## Frequently asked questions

### What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by repetitive hand motions, certain medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, or anatomical factors that reduce space in the carpal tunnel.

### Are there non-surgical treatments available?

Yes, initial treatments may include wrist splinting, corticosteroid injections, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications.

### How long does carpal tunnel surgery take?

The procedure typically takes about **15-30 minutes** and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia.

### What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. You may also experience weakness in grip strength, difficulty holding objects, and nighttime hand pain that disrupts sleep.

### When should I consider surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Surgery is recommended when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, symptoms significantly impact daily activities, muscle wasting occurs in the thumb area, or nerve conduction studies show severe nerve damage.

### What is the recovery time after carpal tunnel surgery?

Most patients can perform light activities within **2-3 days**. Return to desk work is typically possible within **1-2 weeks**, while manual labor may require **4-6 weeks**. Full recovery and maximum strength return within **2-3 months**.

### Will I have a visible scar after carpal tunnel surgery?

The incision is typically **2-3cm** long at the base of the palm. While there will be a scar, it fades significantly over time and is usually quite discrete. **Dr Maresky** uses precise surgical techniques to minimize scarring.

### Can carpal tunnel syndrome come back after surgery?

Recurrence is rare, occurring in less than **5%** of cases. Surgery permanently releases the compressed nerve. However, maintaining good hand ergonomics and addressing underlying conditions helps ensure long-term success.

## Indicative pricing

- Estimate: R30,000 to R60,000 ZAR
- Cost factor: One hand vs both
- Cost factor: Open vs endoscopic technique
- Cost factor: Anesthesia type
- Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/carpal-tunnel-syndrome
- Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation.

## Consultation and contact

- Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation
- Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact