Carpal Tunnel Surgery (Median Nerve Pain Relief)

· Those in Mexicali, Mexico for 2 days or more.
· Those with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome do not improve with non-surgical treatments.
· Those with symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that have lasted at least 6 months.
· Those who want to alleviate severe pain in the median nerve.
· Those who experience pain due to repetitive motion of the hand such as typing.

Carpal tunnel, or carpal canal is the narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist made up of bones and ligaments. The median nerve is in the carpal tunnel. Pressure on the nerve can lead to pain, numbness and weakness that may spread to the arm and even to the shoulder. This is called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome(CTS).

Although the pain may lessen with treatments such as physical therapy, cold compress, medications or wrist splints, those with symptoms that last for more than 6 months are suitable for surgery. The surgery involves cutting the band of tissue in the wrist to lessen pressure on the nerve. It can help to improve life quality especially for those with severe pain.

Carpal tunnel surgery works by cutting the carpal ligament in the wrist that crosses the median nerve. When these tissues are cut, pressure on the median nerve is reduced. Doctors estimate that this surgery has a 90% success rate, and it is rare for the problem to return. It is also unnecessary for patients to spend a night at the hospital after surgery as recovery can be done at home with proper guidelines given by the doctor.

1. Pre-Op testing and consultation will be done. You may need to spend the night at hospital for surgery preparation.
2. Before the surgery, local anesthesia will be administered.
3. A small incision will be made on the middle of the palm to remove all fascia and tissue. This is done to locate the transverse carpal ligament.
4. The transverse carpal ligament will be cut and pressure in the nerves and other ligaments will be relieved.
5. Incision will be closed with stitches. You can go home on the same day.
6. Wrist brace will be given for you to wear for 2 weeks. After 3 weeks post-surgery, please visit the hospital for stitches removal.

Those with prolonged symptoms of CTS may need surgery to alleviate the pain, especially if you are working in these areas:
· Farmers, gardeners
· Assembly-line workers handling objects on the conveyor belt
· Check-out cashiers
· Workers who wear tight gloves
· Locksmiths
· Mechanics who always use screwdrivers and pushing down ratchets
· Musicians using a bow for a stringed instrument
· Office workers using mouse and keyboard
· Painters who use a spray gun repeatedly.
· Poultry or meat processing workers who debone and cut
· Those who press tools into the palm (e.g carpenters)

<Advantages>
· Quick surgical procedure
· Safe procedure
· Proven results
· Improves life quality
· Alleviates pain and discomfort

<Limitations>
· Some time needed for recovery

· Bleeding
· Damage to the median nerve or nearby nerves
· Infection of the wound
· Sensitive scar

Tell the doctor about all the current medicine you are taking, including OTC drugs, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
· At least 2 weeks prior to the procedure, please stop taking any medicines that will make it difficult for blood to clot, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen.
· Quit smoking at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.
· Refrain from eating or drinking for 6 to 12 hours before the surgery.
· Prepare your medical records for doctor’s reference and examination.

· Wear a wrist brace for two weeks.
· Take the medication as prescribed by the surgeon.
· In case of fever, serious pain, bleeding, nausea, and vomiting contact your surgeon immediately.
· If the incision is opening, take pictures of the area and contact your surgeon immediately.
· Bruising and swelling is normal in the affected area during recovery.

Q1: When can I go back to work?
A1: This is something unique to each patient. Those who do sedentary work and don’t carry heavy loads may be able to return after 1 to 2 days. Those whose jobs involve heavy strain on the hands may require 3 to 4 weeks of recovery before returning to work. The doctor may suggest the best time for you to start working.

Q2: Will the wrist brace hurt?
A2: It may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but it will help to prevent a more serious pain. You are encouraged to move the fingers to prevent stiffness during this time.

Q3: How can I reduce swelling?
A3: One way to reduce swelling is to keep the affected hand elevated while sleeping. Avoiding strenuous activities is also important. Please take plenty of rest.

Q4: Can I perform simple activities like brushing the teeth after surgery?
A4: Yes, you may be able to feed yourself, brush your teeth and other simple functions usually at the night after surgery. But please take care of the dressing and avoid it from getting wet to prevent infection.

[Clinic Name] Hospital de la Familia
[Location] Mexicali, Mexico
[Nearest Stations / Attractions] The hospital is about 17 mins drive from Mexicali International Airport and 10 mins drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mexicali
[Clinic Opening Time] Daily (24 hrs)