Decompression
Carpal Tunnel Release
Relieving Pressure on the Median Nerve in the Wrist
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. This can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hand and fingers, especially at night or with repetitive activities. When splints, medications, injections, and therapy are no longer effective, carpal tunnel release surgery is performed to relieve pressure on the median nerve. At Desert Spine and Pain, neurosurgeon Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS uses both open and endoscopic techniques, with a focus on minimally invasive approaches for faster recovery.
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What Is Carpal Tunnel Release?
In simple terms: The surgery cuts the tight ligament in the wrist (the transverse carpal ligament) to make more space for the median nerve.
Scientifically: Carpal tunnel release involves transection of the transverse carpal ligament to decompress the median nerve, restoring normal conduction and preventing further neuropathy.
Conditions Treated
Carpal tunnel syndrome with persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness
No relief from conservative care (splinting, therapy, injections)
Progressive symptoms threatening permanent nerve damage
Nocturnal symptoms interfering with sleep and daily life
The Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure: Step by Step
Plain-English Overview
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or regional block.
Incision: Either a small incision in the palm (open release) or tiny incision near the wrist crease (endoscopic release).
Ligament release: The transverse carpal ligament is cut, relieving nerve pressure.
Closure: Skin closed with sutures or adhesive; small dressing applied.
Recovery: Most patients go home the same day.
Surgeon-Level Detail
Open release: 2–3 cm palmar incision; direct visualization of transverse carpal ligament; careful division under loupe magnification.
Endoscopic release: Small incision near wrist flexion crease; endoscope inserted; ligament divided under camera guidance.
Confirmation: Median nerve inspected; complete release of ligament ensured.
Closure: Minimal dissection; layered closure or skin adhesive; soft dressing applied.
Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Release
High success rate (>90% relief of numbness/tingling in properly selected patients)
Outpatient procedure; very short operative time
Endoscopic option = smaller incision, faster recovery
Prevents long-term nerve damage and hand dysfunction
Rapid improvement in night symptoms for most patients
Risks & Limitations
Infection, bleeding, scar tenderness
Injury to median nerve or branches (rare with microsurgical care)
Persistent numbness if nerve severely damaged before surgery
Grip strength may take months to recover
Possible pillar pain (soreness at base of palm) temporarily
Recovery Timeline
Day 0: Outpatient surgery; hand bandaged
Weeks 1–2: Sutures removed; light use of hand resumed
Weeks 2–6: Gradual increase in activity; grip strength slowly improves
6–12 weeks: Return to most normal activities
3–6 months: Full strength and sensation recovery (longer if severe compression pre-op)
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Neurosurgical expertise: Dr. Greenwald is highly skilled in peripheral nerve decompression
Endoscopic and open options: Customized to patient anatomy and preference
MIS focus: Minimal scarring, faster recovery, less downtime
Comprehensive care: From diagnostics to therapy and surgery, all in one place
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need carpal tunnel release?
If bracing, injections, and activity changes haven’t helped—or if nerve testing shows damage—surgery is recommended.
Which is better: open or endoscopic release?
Both are effective. Endoscopic release may allow quicker recovery, while open release offers direct visualization. Dr. Greenwald will recommend the best option for you.
How soon can I use my hand?
Light hand use within days; heavy gripping/impact takes weeks to months.
Will surgery cure my carpal tunnel syndrome?
Most patients get lasting relief. If nerve damage is advanced, some symptoms may persist.
How does Desert Spine and Pain perform this differently?
We use microsurgical precision and patient-tailored techniques, ensuring maximum safety and faster return to normal life.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand from carpal tunnel syndrome, Carpal Tunnel Release may be the solution you need for lasting relief. Dr. Greenwald and his caring team will evaluate your symptoms, review diagnostic testing, and determine the most effective treatment for your condition. Every step you take toward proper nerve care brings you closer to comfort and restored hand function. Schedule your consultation today and let Dr. Greenwald help you return to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
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Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine and peripheral nerve surgeon specializing in Carpal Tunnel Release, a procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. This condition, known as carpal tunnel syndrome, often results from repetitive motion, wrist strain, or nerve compression. Dr. Greenwald performs both traditional and minimally invasive carpal tunnel release techniques, using precision and care to restore normal nerve function while minimizing scarring and recovery time. His meticulous approach and surgical expertise have helped patients throughout South Florida regain strength, sensation, and function in their hands.
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