Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Potential Complications & Recovery

Carpel tunnel syndrome is decompression of the median nerve located in the wrist. The symptoms are excruciating pain, numbness and tingling in the wrist, hand and fingers especially at nights. It is a common disorder and every year approximately 500,000 Americans have surgery for carpel tunnel release. Most of these surgeries are successful, however there are possible surgical complications to the procedure.

Pain

• Pain may occur after surgery, particularly in the base of the palm lasting for up 3 to 4 months. With time, the pain subsides.

Minor Complications

• Other minor post-op complications may include limited bleeding, numbness, swelling and a stiff wrist.

Infections

• The wound could become infected resulting in swelling, pain and redness at the operative site and a fever. Follow up with your physician immediately if you note any signs of infection.

Scars at The Incision Site

• Painful, abnormal looking scars can develop especially in people prone to having keloids. A follow up with a dermatologist might be helpful in this event.

Median/Ulnar Nerve Damage

• Median/ulnar nerve damage can result in numbness and loss of power in the palm, thumb or fingers.

Warning

• Seek your doctor's advice for any signs of complications.