Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis
A physical examination and nerve conduction testing performed by an orthopedic expert can help to identify carpal tunnel syndrome. A comprehensive check of your hand, shoulder, wrist, neck, or any other places that might cause nerve pressure may be included in the physical examination. The doctor may also examine the wrist for soreness or edema. The doctor may do further tests to assess the sensitivity of your fingers and the strength of the muscles in your hand.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery
An orthopedic specialist conducts carpal tunnel release surgery to treat the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel surgery aims to alleviate discomfort, swelling, and pressure on the median nerve. Outpatient surgery is conducted in a hospital operating room under the influence of general or local anesthetic. During the procedure, the orthopedic physician makes one or two tiny incisions in the palm or wrist region, each around 12 inch long. These microscopic incisions will result in very minor scars that are usually invisible.
Through one incision, an endoscope is introduced. The endoscope features a camera on its tip, allowing the clinician to examine for pathology or anomalies. The endoscope displays a television picture that allows the surgeon to see the interior of the hand or wrist directly. Through the second incision, the doctor may use surgical instruments to remove the transverse carpal ligament, relieving pressure on the median nerve by extending the carpal tunnel. Dissolvable sutures are used to seal the wounds once the ligament has been severed. The carpal tunnel release surgery is far less harmful to the joint, muscles, ligaments, and tissues than traditional carpal tunnel surgery with large incisions.
