Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels from the wrist to the hand. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome typically include tingling, numbness and pain in the index, middle and ring fingers. Compression of the nerve is the result of swelling of the tendons of your wrist, which can be due to a variety of factors, including repetitive activities.
Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to chronic pain or numbness that extends throughout the hand and can event result in partial loss of hand function. Surgery is generally indicated if carpal tunnel syndrome is unresponsive to conservative treatments, and carpal tunnel surgery remains the most effective and long-lasting treatment option.
In addition to his extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, Plástica Tijuana Surgery plastic surgeon Dr. Juan Pablo Cervantes underwent further training in hand surgery.
Open Release Surgery During open carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut, which releases pressure on the median nerve and relieves the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
An incision is made at the base of the palm of the hand. This allows the doctor to see the transverse carpal ligament. After the ligament is cut, the skin is closed with stitches. The gap where the ligament was cut is left alone and eventually fills up with scar tissue.
Although Dr. Cervantes performs the majority of his carpal tunnel procedures endoscopically, an “open” release is occasionally indicated. Your consultation with Dr. Cervantes will determine the best surgical approach for your specific condition.
After surgery, the hand is wrapped. The stitches are removed 10 to 14 days after surgery. The pain and numbness may go away right after surgery or may take several months to subside. Try to avoid heavy use of your hand for up to 3 months.
When you return to work depends on whether the dominant hand (the hand you use most) was involved, on your work activities, and on the effort that you put into rehabilitative physical therapy.
If you have surgery on your non dominant hand and do not do repetitive, high-risk activities at work, you may return to work within 1 to 2 days, although 7 to 14 days is most common.
If you have surgery on your dominant hand and do repetitive activities at work, you may require 6 to 12 weeks for a full recovery before you can return to previous work duties. Physical therapy may speed your recovery.
If you believe you may have carpal tunnel syndrome and would like to learn more about your hand surgery options, please contact Plástica Tijuana Surgery. We proudly serve patients in the Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and Baja California, areas.
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At Plástica Tijuana, we are here to help you. We take the time to explain our procedures and answer your questions. We want you to feel comfortable and confident before deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery. You can expect a warm, friendly attitude from our highly professional staff. Our staff is highly trained in advanced medical procedures and observes strict safety protocols, and is fluent in both English and Spanish.
New City Medical Plaza P.° del Centenario 9580, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B. C. Floor: 19- Suite:1901
New City Medical Plaza P.° del Centenario 9580, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B. C. Floor: 19- Suite:1901
contact@plasticatijuana.com