A carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed in a space called the carpal tunnel. When symptoms fail to respond to conservative (non-operative) treatment, surgery may be indicated. A carpal tunnel release is performed to take pressure off the median nerve. This procedure is usually done under a regional anesthesia (only your arm is put to sleep) or with local anesthesia, on an outpatient basis.
The following instructions should help you through the postoperative period:
On the day of surgery your hand may be numb for several hours because of the axillary or local block. During this time keep your hand elevated on pillows or in a sling. You can apply ice on the back of your wrist or rest your hand on an ice bag to help decrease swelling. As soon as you are able, start gentle but complete range of motion of your fingers, elbow, and shoulder. In particular try to get your fingers fully extended using your other hand to help if necessary.
You have been given a prescription for a narcotic pain medicine and may have been given a prescription for a medication to control nausea and vomiting. Use these judiciously as directed. If you have questions contact our office.
If your bandage is too loose or too tight, you may unwrap and rewrap the ace bandage. If you want to take a shower cover the bandage with a plastic bag.
After 72 hours you have the option of removing your bandage and getting your hand wet in the shower. After you do so, you should clean the stitches with peroxide, apply new dressing, and either put back on your postoperative splint or put on your carpal tunnel splint if you have one. You should wear this splint all the time for the first two weeks. You may use your hand for light activities as you feel comfortable, but avoid strenuous activities. You may resume driving when your pain subsides such that you don't require narcotic analgesics (pain medications).
Your first postoperative visit will be approximately two weeks after surgery. At that visit you at will have your dressing and stitches removed, and a new dressing and carpal tunnel splint apply. For the next two weeks, you should wear your carpal tunnel splint all the time except to bathe and exercise. You may want to wear the wristlet at night or when doing activities for an additional two weeks.
At your first post-operative visit you will be shown how to do contrast baths and therapy putty exercises. Do these exercises once or twice daily for each of the exercises marked. If you have been given a rubber band gripper, start using it four weeks after surgery according to the instructions. You may massage the incision with cocoa butter or vitamin E preparations to decrease swelling and scarring.
Your second postoperative visit will be approximately six weeks after surgery. Your strength and function will be tested and final instructions given. You should be able to do most of your normal activities at this point. If you still need help regaining strength and motion, a referral will be given for hand therapy.
Hopefully this information will answer some of your questions and allow you to have a pleasant post-operative experience. If you have additional questions or concerns don't hesitate to contact your physician or our nursing staff @ 323-2600.