Side Effects of Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hands and fingers resulting from overuse and repetitive movements. Physical therapy and medication are sometimes used to treat the condition, though surgery is an option when the disorder begins to interrupt normal activities. Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and done under twilight anesthesia.

Recovery

• Since ligaments are cut during the procedure, patients rarely achieve 100 percent restoration.

Scar Tissue

• Since the area is so small in which the physician is working, scar tissue often forms in the small carpals, creating even more pain following the surgery.

Strength

• Most patients experience some loss in the strength of their grips and lifting abilities.

Motion

• A full range of motion is rarely achieved following carpal tunnel surgery because the ligament at the base of the hand is cut and does not return to its original status.

Returning

• Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually return after a couple years following surgery, often requiring another operation. Doctors typically will not perform more than two surgeries on each hand.