Endoscopic carpal tunnel

Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is a tremendous advance in the treatment of CTS. View fullsize

 
 
 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common problem among adults.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be initially managed with wrist splinting and cortisone injections. If symptoms persist despite these measures, surgery can offer a permanent solution.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Typical symptoms include pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers, usually worsening at night.  In more advanced stages, weakness and difficulty with fine muscle movement, such as buttoning a shirt, can occur.  Carpal tunnel syndrome is not a completely benign condition. Left untreated, nerve damage can be permanent.

  • A consultation with Dr. Brady is the first step to determining if this procedure is advised.

    Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is a tremendous advance in the treatment of CTS. Through a wrist incision the size of a grain of rice, a narrow camera is inserted beneath the ligament that is compressing the nerve. A fine scalpel is then used to divide the ligament.

    The surgery usually takes 12-15 minutes and patients can be driven home an hour later.

    Many patients with CTS have the condition in both wrists. Dr. Brady routinely operates on both wrists in a single procedure.

  • The recovery from endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is quick and not painful. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting for 2 weeks but lighter activities are encouraged. Patients can shower normally the next day and simply cover the incision with a bandaid. A follow up visit occurs the following week. Patients can return to work the following day but should avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks.

 
 

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