Carpal Tunnel Release Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Carpal Tunnel Release Overview Carpal tunnel release is an arthroscopy procedure to treat carpal tunnel syndrome where the surgeon releases the transverse carpal ligament in the wrist, which covers the median nerve, to decrease pressure on the nerve or decompress the nerve. Indications This nerve decompression procedure is usually recommended for patients who are in advanced stages of carpal tunnel syndrome and have not shown improvement following non-surgical interventions. Procedure Preoperative preparationThe decision for surgery is made following extensive clinical examination and a thorough discussion between the patient and surgeon. Before the surgery:Few blood tests are required before the procedure to assess the patient’s general conditionAnti-inflammatory medications and blood thinners are stopped 5–7 days before the surgerySurgeryThis arthroscopy procedure can be performed as a daycare procedure or might require 1-day admission depending on the condition. The patient is admitted a few hours before surgery and the duration of fasting required is determined by the surgeon. The procedure is done as follows:Local anaesthesia (axillary block or a wrist block) or general anaesthesia is administeredSmall incisions (around 1 inch) are made at the palmar aspect of the wrist, and the transverse carpal ligament (covering of the carpal tunnel) is cut completely to relieve the pressure (decompress) on the median nerveAll aspects of the nerve are examined to assess adequate releaseIf deemed suitable by the treating surgeon, the surgery can also be done using an endoscope (keyhole surgery).Postoperative careMedications for painWound careIce packs to reduce swellingHand elevation in the first few days to minimise swellingPhysical therapy and rehabilitationAvoiding strenuous activities involving the hand and wrist for 2-4 weeks Complications Arthroscopy procedures are generally safe but potential complications include: Tissue or nerve damageInfectionStiffness and weakness of joint Outcome Most patients experience significant relief from pain, numbness, and tingling after surgery. Improvement in hand strength and functionality is typically gradual with full recovery taking several weeks to months. Patients can usually resume light activities within 1–2 weeks, while full recovery may take 6–12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's adherence to postoperative care.