What is open carpal tunnel surgery?

Open Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Open carpal tunnel surgery: Overview

During open carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut. This releases pressure on the median nerve and relieves the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

An incision is made at the base of the palm of the hand. This allows the doctor to see the transverse carpal ligament. After the ligament is cut, the skin is closed with stitches. The gap where the ligament was cut is left alone. Over time, it fills up with scar tissue.

Most people who have this surgery don't need to stay in the hospital. It is usually done with local anesthetic, and you can go home on the same day.

Why is open carpal tunnel surgery done?

Open carpal tunnel surgery is considered when:

  • You still have symptoms after a long period of nonsurgical treatment. In general, surgery is not considered until after several weeks to months of nonsurgical treatment. But this assumes that you still have symptoms but there's no sign of nerve damage. Nerve damage would make surgery more urgent.
  • Severe symptoms (such as persistent loss of feeling or coordination in the fingers or hand, or no strength in the thumb) restrict normal daily activities.
  • There is damage to the median nerve (shown by nerve test results and loss of hand or finger function), or a risk of nerve damage.
  • Tumors or other growths need to be removed.

How well does open carpal tunnel surgery work?

Most people who have surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome have fewer or no symptoms of pain and numbness in their hand after surgery.

In rare cases, the symptoms of pain and numbness may come back. (This is the most common complication.) Or you may have short-term loss of strength when you pinch or grip an object. This is because the transverse carpal ligament was cut.

If the thumb muscles have been severely weakened or wasted away, your hand strength and function may be limited even after surgery.

Both endoscopic and open carpal tunnel release have benefits and risks. Studies don't show that one procedure is better than the other in the long term.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.

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