What is Carpal Tunnel Release?

Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It is performed to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers.

How Does Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Work?

Carpal tunnel release surgery involves:

  • Incision: An incision is made in the wrist, either through an open incision or through a smaller incision using endoscopic techniques.
  • Carpal Ligament Release: The carpal ligament (a band of tissue that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel) is cut to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
  • Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation and takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

The Ideal Candidate

Candidates for carpal tunnel release surgery typically include:

  • Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome who have not responded to non-surgical treatments, such as splinting and medication
  • Those with severe pain, numbness, or tingling in the hand and fingers
  • People with weakness in the hand
  • Healthy individuals without medical conditions that might impair healing
  • Non-smokers
  • Individuals with realistic expectations

During your consultation, Dr. Maresky will assess whether carpal tunnel release is appropriate for your specific concerns and medical history.

Recovery

Recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery typically involves:

  • Temporary discomfort, swelling, and bruising
  • Pain medication to manage discomfort
  • Splint to support the wrist
  • Limited activity for 2-4 weeks
  • Return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks
  • Full recovery and final results visible after several months

Dr. Maresky will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

Results and Benefits

Carpal tunnel release can provide:

  • Relief from pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers
  • Improved hand function
  • Increased strength in the hand
  • Better sleep

While there will be scars, they are typically small and well-concealed in the wrist crease.

Procedure Results

Below you can see an example of a hand after carpal tunnel release surgery performed by Dr. Maresky. The image demonstrates the minimal scarring and improved hand function that can be achieved with this procedure.

Procedure Result

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Carpal tunnel release procedure result

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Why Choose Dr. Maresky for Your Carpal Tunnel Release?

Dr. Gideon Maresky combines his surgical expertise with a focus on minimally invasive techniques to achieve optimal results with minimal scarring and a faster recovery. He understands that each patient's condition is unique, and he customizes each carpal tunnel release procedure to address your specific concerns and restore your hand function.

During your consultation, Dr. Maresky will take the time to understand your goals and expectations, explain the procedure in detail, and help you make an informed decision about your carpal tunnel release surgery.

Dr. Gideon Maresky Plastic Surgeon Cape Town

Interested in Carpal Tunnel Release?

Contact Dr. Maresky for a personalized consultation to discuss your options and determine if this procedure is right for you.

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