Know the Benefits of Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Are you experiencing numbness, tingling, or discomfort in your hand and wrist? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome. If so, you’re looking for effective treatment options. This blog explores the benefits of endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, a minimally invasive approach to relieving carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve compression) occurs when the median nerve in your wrist, which runs from your forearm to your hand, is compressed. When the space around this nerve (the carpal tunnel) becomes narrowed, the nerve can get compressed. This compression leads to the uncomfortable symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment in Dubai varies from conservative methods to surgery. Initially, doctors often recommend non-surgical approaches, such as wrist splints, pain relievers, and steroid injections. However, if these treatments don’t provide relief, carpal tunnel release surgery might be necessary.
What is Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is a specific type of minimally invasive surgery used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. It uses small incisions and a tiny camera (endoscope) to allow the surgeon to see inside the carpal tunnel without making a large cut. This technique is different from traditional open carpal tunnel release surgery.
Benefits of Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery
There are several benefits of endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery compared to traditional open surgery:
- Smaller Incisions: Endoscopic surgery requires much smaller incisions. This means less scarring and a reduced risk of infection.
- Less Pain: Patients often experience less pain after endoscopic surgery.
- Faster Recovery: Recovery time is typically shorter with the endoscopic approach. Most patients return to normal activities within weeks.
- Minimal Tissue Disruption: Because the incisions are smaller, there is less disruption to the surrounding tissues.
- Improved Precision: The endoscope provides a magnified view of the surgical area. This allows the surgeon to perform the surgery with greater precision.
Minimally Invasive Carpal Tunnel Surgery: A Closer Look
Minimally invasive carpal tunnel surgery, such as the endoscopic technique, offers significant advantages. The smaller incisions translate to less post-operative pain and a quicker return to daily life. This is a significant factor for many people considering surgery. Want to learn more about another minimally invasive procedure? Read our blog here.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: The Procedure
During endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision in the wrist. The endoscope is inserted, giving the surgeon a clear view of the carpal tunnel. Specialized instruments are used to cut the ligament pressing on the median nerve. This releases the pressure and alleviates the symptoms.
Recovery After Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery
After surgery, your hand will be bandaged. You’ll likely be encouraged to move your fingers to prevent stiffness. Your doctor will give you follow-up guidelines after the surgery regarding pain management and activity restrictions. Most people can return to light activities within a few days. Full recovery may take several weeks or months, depending on the severity of your condition and your overall health.
Is Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery Right for Me?
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and conservative treatments haven’t helped, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery might be an option. To find out if endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is right for you, provided your body condition, a consultation with a qualified surgeon is crucial.
Choosing a Qualified Surgeon
Selecting an experienced surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome. Look for a surgeon who specializes in hand surgery and has extensive experience with endoscopic techniques. Ready to discuss your treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Liner, a consultant neuro and spine surgeon.
FAQs
The procedure typically takes less than an hour.
Most doctors recommend physical therapy after the surgery to help you regain strength in your hand and wrist.
Most people can return to light work within a few days to a week. Returning to more strenuous work may take several weeks.
Like any other surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, these risks are generally low with endoscopic surgery.
You will receive anesthesia during the procedure so that you won’t feel any pain. After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication.
