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

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or regional block.
   
   

2. Incision: Either a small incision in the palm (open release) or tiny incision near the wrist crease (endoscopic release).
   
   

3. Ligament release: The transverse carpal ligament is cut, relieving nerve pressure.
   
   

4. Closure: Skin closed with sutures or adhesive; small dressing applied.
   
   

5. 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.