What is Carpal Tunnel Decompression Surgery or Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery ?

Carpal tunnel Decompression operation or the other name is Carpal Tunnel Release surgery, is a surgery carried out to treat and potentially heal the painful condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. 

During a carpal tunnel release, a cut is put through the Carpal Tunnel ligament or Flexor Retinaculum that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel and hence compressing the medican nerve. This makes more room for the median nerve and tendons passing through the carpal tunnel, and usually improves pain and function.

Why might  You need carpal tunnel surgery ?

Conservative non-surgical treatments are tried first, when a diagnosis of Carpal tunnel syndrome is made. These may include anti inflammatory pain medicines, physical therapy, changes to the equipment used at work and wrist splints. Second line treatment is the steroid injections in the wrist to help relieve swelling in the carpal tunnel and hence relieve pain. If these measures fail, as described above, then surgery may be recommended.

Carpal Tunnel Release surgery may be recommended if :

1. The nonsurgical interventions for carpal tunnel syndrome fail to relieve the pain.

2. The muscles of the hands or wrists are weakened and actually get smaller because of the severe pinching and compression of the median nerve.

3. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome have lasted 6 months or longer with no relief of symptoms.