Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve compression condition, caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the narrow carpal tunnel at the wrist. This produces numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers — often worse at night or when holding the wrist in bent positions — and in severe or longstanding cases, weakness and muscle wasting at the thumb base. Carpal tunnel release surgery relieves pressure by dividing the transverse carpal ligament, and is recommended when conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief.
What does a Carpal Tunnel procedure involve?
Your surgeon will assess your symptoms, perform provocative tests (Phalen's and Tinel's), and review any nerve conduction studies. Conservative treatment — wrist splinting, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication, and corticosteroid injections — is usually tried first unless there is severe nerve compression or muscle wasting.
Surgery takes fifteen to thirty minutes per hand under local anaesthetic and is typically performed as a day case. Two approaches are available:
Open release: A three to four centimetre incision in the palm allows direct visualisation and division of the transverse carpal ligament. Reliable and suitable for all cases.
Endoscopic release: The ligament is divided through one or two small incisions using a camera. Potentially faster return to work, but requires specialised equipment and is not suitable for all cases.
Both hands can be treated in one session if required. Immediate finger movement is encouraged.
Your Recovery
Soreness at the incision and palm tenderness (pillar pain) are common for one to eight weeks. Sutures are removed at ten to fourteen days. Light activities are possible immediately; heavy gripping should be avoided for two to four weeks. Most patients return to desk work within one week and to manual work within four to six weeks. Numbness and tingling typically improve within days to weeks, though complete recovery can take several months.
Risks and Complications
Infection (rare)
Nerve injury — particularly to the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve
Incomplete release with persistent symptoms
Scar or pillar pain (usually temporary)
Weakness or stiffness requiring therapy
Recurrence (rare)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will carpal tunnel syndrome come back after surgery?
Recurrence after complete release is uncommon - less than five per cent. Symptoms returning years later may indicate incomplete initial release or a new episode.
How long before symptoms improve?
Many patients notice reduced night symptoms within days. Full recovery of sensation can take several months.
Should I have both hands done at once?
This is possible but means both hands are recovering simultaneously. Many patients prefer to stage procedures four to six weeks apart.
THE SPECIALIST CLINIC DUBLIN
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery performed with Care & Compassion
To discuss whether carpal tunnel release is suitable for you, contact us to arrange a consultation.