Tuesday, December 24, 2013

An Overview Of Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery

By Eugenia Dickerson


The performance of endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is an invasive procedure aimed at alleviating the pain associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Such injury often results from the compression of the nerve located in the hand and wrist due to repetitive strain and activities that place pressure on such tissues. Patients report sensations of numbness, tingling, and weakness of the limb.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or CTS is an uncomfortable condition that results in the compression of the median nerve of the wrist and can be attributed to repetitive stress injuries and age. Patients often describe the symptoms as mild tingling, numbness and weakness that makes it exceptionally difficult to hold or pull various items. The symptoms will become progressively worse over time and requires the appropriate medical intervention to manage and relieve discomfort.

The medical practitioner will need a detailed assessment of a medical history and a physical exam to detect the nature of the symptoms. The performance of digital imaging is necessary to detect the source for symptoms and the nature of nerve function. If movement is limited and the area is sore to the touch it will need a professional intervention to advise on the most suitable methods for recovery.

The Electromyogram and Nerve Conduction Velocity are effective testing procedures that are used to identify the source for symptoms and the extent of nerve damage. Injuries that are mild in nature may respond to the application of a wrist brace to minimize movement and prescription drugs to control the pain. Such conventional means may not deliver the desired result and endoscopic intervention becomes the next step in the therapeutic process.

The purpose for the performance of surgery is to relieve the contracted ligament that has cause pressure on nerve function. The nerve experiences a compressed state due to the ligament having become tight. The insertion of an endoscopic device will need to be placed below the carpal ligament to view the damage and to make the necessary incisions within the wrist.

Such methods should only be applied by an experienced and skilled surgeon because on the delicate nature involved. Such methods will be implemented within a half an hour and may include the use of anesthesia that will be determined by the preferences of patients. The needs and interests of all persons are considered including the option of regional anesthesia where the arm is numbed.

The outpatient surgery will allow the patient to engage in lighter motions that minimize the possibility of additional damage. The practitioner will advise on the steps for recovery and the overall healing processes that need to take place for normal function. One should rest the arm for a period of 6 months that will allow for all tissues to recover.

The performance of endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery becomes necessary where regular methods of intervention such as bracing have failed to deliver the results you are looking for. It should be assessed by a licensed and experienced surgeon who can advise on the damages and facilitates pain free function for long term results. With CTS it is best to seek therapy to relieve discomfort and prevent further damage.




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