What a Carpal Tunnel Release Can Achieve
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of the wrist through which the median nerve and flexor tendons pass. When the nerve becomes compressed within this space it can cause pain, tingling and numbness in the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers. Night-time symptoms are common and can disrupt sleep.
A carpal tunnel release relieves pressure on the median nerve, improving symptoms and function while helping prevent further nerve damage. Improvement in pain, tingling and night-time symptoms often occurs early, while recovery of sensation may take longer.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This provides time to assess your symptoms, examine your hand and discuss your goals and expectations in detail.
A carpal tunnel release is commonly performed at The Surgery under local anaesthetic as a day procedure. A small incision is made in the palm and the ligament forming the roof of the carpal tunnel is divided. This increases the space within the tunnel and relieves pressure on the median nerve.
Recovery and Aftercare
Some swelling and stiffness are expected after surgery and the scar may be sensitive. Hand therapy is not always required, although it may be beneficial in restoring strength and movement. Driving is usually possible after one to two weeks, once you can safely control the vehicle and perform emergency manoeuvres comfortably.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Is a Carpal Tunnel Release Right for You?
You may be suitable for a carpal tunnel release if you experience persistent pain, tingling, numbness, night-time symptoms or reduced hand strength and dexterity.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment of your symptoms and function, and an opportunity to discuss whether surgical release may be the most appropriate management option for you.
Carpal Tunnel Release in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of the wrist. This tunnel also contains flexor tendons. Compression of the nerve can cause pain and tingling in the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger. Night-time symptoms are common and can disrupt sleep. With ongoing compression, numbness and reduced grip strength may develop.
The median nerve supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger and powers muscles that move the thumb. The little finger is supplied by the ulnar nerve, which does not pass through the carpal tunnel. This is why carpal tunnel syndrome does not affect the little finger.
A carpal tunnel release is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day procedure. A small incision is made in the palm and the ligament forming the roof of the carpal tunnel is divided. This increases the space within the tunnel and relieves pressure on the median nerve. The wound is closed with sutures and a protective dressing applied.
Patients commonly consider surgery when symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment such as activity modification, wrist splinting or steroid injections, when night-time symptoms disrupt sleep or when numbness, weakness or loss of hand function worsens.
No. Carpal tunnel release is performed as a day procedure.
Some discomfort, stiffness and swelling are expected after surgery. Pain, tingling and night-time symptoms often improve within the first few days. Grip strength may feel temporarily reduced and may take several weeks to months to recover. If nerve compression has been longstanding, some numbness or weakness may persist, although surgery prevents further deterioration in nerve function.
A sling may be provided to support the hand in the early post-operative period. Keeping the hand elevated, particularly during the first few days after surgery, helps reduce swelling and stiffness. When resting, the hand should be kept above the level of the heart where possible.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Those in desk-based or supervisory roles may return within one to two weeks while physically demanding work may require a longer period of leave.
Driving is usually possible after one to two weeks, once you can safely control the vehicle and perform emergency manoeuvres comfortably.
Hand therapy is not always required after a carpal tunnel release. Many patients recover well with simple movement, gradual return to activity and time. In some cases hand therapy may be recommended to assist with stiffness, scar sensitivity, strength or function, particularly if symptoms were longstanding or recovery is slower than expected.
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Potential risks include pain, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, adverse scarring, scar sensitivity, stiffness, swelling, pillar pain, nerve or vessel injury, complex regional pain syndrome, incomplete resolution of symptoms, recurrence or the need for further surgery. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
Yes. Outcomes vary depending on factors such as the duration and severity of nerve compression, individual anatomy and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation.
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