An Overview Of Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery

By Eugenia Dickerson


With the application of endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery it offers patients a non-invasive approach to relieving painful symptoms that are associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The damage that occurs is attributed to the presence of compressed nerves that extend from the wrist to the hand. Patients will experience exceptional pain and strain with the weakening of the limb.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is also referred to as CTS and is a common condition that results from repetitive stress injuries and damage to the median nerve located in the wrist. Patients will describe a wide range of symptoms from tingling and numbness to weakened states making it impossible to lift and hold regular objects. The adverse effects will become worse over a period of time and requires the appropriate intervention.

Your surgeon will require a medical history and the completion of a physical assessment in order to identify the severity of symptoms. The X-ray imaging can aid in providing clarity on the injury and aid in the detection of the damage. Measures will include tenderness and range of movement allowing the professional to advise on the appropriate steps forward.

The completion of a physical examination and measures including the Electromyogram and and Nerve Conduction Velocity will determine the location of the damage. If the injuries are moderate, a wrist brace may have to be worn for a period of time and non-steroidal injections implement to decrease pain. Where such measures fail, endoscopic intervention will be recommended with the aim of decreasing the symptoms that impact on function without lengthy recovery periods.

The purpose for the performance of surgery is to relieve the contracted ligament that has cause pressure on nerve function. The nerve experiences a compressed state due to the ligament having become tight. The insertion of an endoscopic device will need to be placed below the carpal ligament to view the damage and to make the necessary incisions within the wrist.

Such methods should only be applied by an experienced and skilled surgeon because on the delicate nature involved. Such methods will be implemented within a half an hour and may include the use of anesthesia that will be determined by the preferences of patients. The needs and interests of all persons are considered including the option of regional anesthesia where the arm is numbed.

It is an outpatient process that allows for light movement after the surgery has been completed. The practitioner will be able to advise on the measures available and the steps for recovery that should be applied to relieve symptoms and prevent further damages from occurring. The arm should not be used for a period of 6 weeks to allow for sufficient healing.

If traditional methods for recovery do not prove effective in alleviating pain and facilitating recovery, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery may be required to achieve a fully functional and pain free hand. An experienced surgeon who is skilled in such intervention should be consulted to determine the extent of the injury. CTS should be evaluated by a professional to ensure that discomfort is addressed and relieved.




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