23 Apr 2024 Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Surgery
Hand conditions can significantly impact daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. One such condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, where the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Dr Andre Safvat is a Plastic Surgeon as well as a Hand Surgeon and has a special interest in hand conditions. Carpal Tunnel Release is one of his favourite operations and a surgery he performs often.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Is it just numbness or tingling in the hand? Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. This compression leads to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand and wrist.
Initial Management Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: For mild cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, non-surgical approaches are often the first line of treatment. These may include wrist splinting, steroid injections, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications (such as weight loss) to reduce strain on the wrist.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary: However, as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome progresses or becomes more severe, non-surgical interventions may prove inadequate in providing long-term relief. This is where surgery, aimed at decompressing the carpal tunnel and alleviating pressure on the median nerve, becomes necessary.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery is a common procedure performed to relieve the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. During the surgery, the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, is divided, enlarging the tunnel and reducing pressure on the median nerve.
How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Here’s Dr Safvat’s Approach: Dr Safvat employs a meticulous approach to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome surgery. There are different options for the way the operation can be done – open operation or with a telescope (endoscopically). Dr Safvat has been trained and has experience in both methods however, his preference is to do it via the open method. An endoscopic procedure only has very small benefits and these are usually not worth the increased risks of complications associated with it. With a focus on patient comfort and optimal outcomes, Dr. Safvat ensures thorough pre-operative assessment, personalised treatment plans and excellent post-operative care.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: The procedure is done as a day only procedure in hospital. Following Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery, patients should expect to experience improvement in symptoms over time. Recovery depends on degree of nerve damage prior to surgery. Rehabilitation may involve gentle exercises, ergonomic adjustments, and gradual return to normal activities under the guidance of Dr Safvat who may also send you to a hand therapist.
Conclusion: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can significantly impact hand function and quality of life, but with timely intervention, including surgery, when necessary, patients can regain comfort and mobility in their hands. Dr Safvat and his team ensure that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs, leading to successful outcomes and improved well-being.
If you suspect you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or are considering surgical intervention, it is recommended that you have a consultation with Dr Safvat to explore your treatment options. You will need a valid referral from your GP in order to see Dr Safvat and preferably have a nerve conduction study done beforehand (organised by your GP).
Patients should discuss with their GP and Plastic Surgeon as to whether surgery is a good option for them. All surgery comes with risks which will be discussed during consultation. Your final results can take up to 12 months or more to be seen. Before proceeding, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
DR ANDRE SAFVAT (MED1155201)
Registered Medical Practitioner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery).