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Carpal tunnel repair Description:
The tendons and nerve to the hand (median nerve) passes between strong ligaments (carpal ligaments) in the wrist and the wrist bones (carpal tunnel). When the nerves or tendons inside the carpal tunnel swell or become inflamed ( carpal tunnel syndrome ), pressure on the nerve causes pain, numbness , tingling , or weakness in the fingers and wrist.
Carpal tunnel repair is done while the patient is awake or sleepy and pain-free (local or regional anesthesia) or deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). Through an incision on the inside of the wrist, the carpal ligament is cut open to relieve the pressure on the nerve. The incision is stitched (sutured) closed.
Indications:
Most physicians recommend trying non-surgical treatments (such as: splinting the wrist, using anti-inflammation medications) before recommending surgery.
What to Expect After:
The surgery is usually very successful in relieving symptoms. Numbness or tingling that continues after surgery is usually due to damage to the nerve.
Convalescence:
A splint may be used to reduce wrist motion. The surgery is usually done as an outpatient. Complete recovery takes about 4 weeks.
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are: Risks for any surgery are:
Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.
Surgery charges can be separated into five parts:
1. Surgeon's fee: $2,100 for each hand
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.
Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized and may be occurring more often. It may result from repetitive motion or the use of devices like computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and
Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized and may be occurring more often. It may result from repetitive motion or the use of devices like computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and
Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized and may be occurring more often. It may result from repetitive motion or the use of devices like computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and
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