What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
This condition occurs when one of the major nerves – the median nerve – from the wrist to the hand gets squeezed or compressed. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome generally gets worse with time so early diagnosis and treatment are recommended.
What Does a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Involve?
In some cases, surgery is not required, in which case wrist braces and corticosteroids can help. When surgery is required, there are two main options to choose from: open and endoscopic. In both cases, the surgeon will cut the ligament around the carpal tunnel to relieve the pressure around the median nerve.
The Ideal Candidate
During your initial consultation, the surgeon will decide whether or not you are a good candidate. Please note that you may not be a good candidate if:
- You have had symptoms for less than six months
- Your symptoms have improved with non-surgical treatment
- You have a severe illness or infection
How Much Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Cost?
Before any surgery can be scheduled a consultation must take place, here the surgeon will assess the patients’ needs and suggest the best procedure to achieve the required results.
Consultation Fee: R1000
(Medical Aid)
The payment plan will be established between the patient and their medical aid provider.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Recovery
You are likely to feel relief from your symptoms soon after your surgery, however, the recovery period could be anything from 2 weeks to several months depending on the surgery.
Complications | Risks | Side Effects | Scars
Temporary Side Effects
It is common to experience side effects after a Carpal Tunnel Surgery, these include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Limited movement in the hand and wrist
- Bleeding
Other Possible Side Effects
In some cases, the side effects are more severe. These include:
- Infection
- Injury to the median nerve or nerves that branch out from it
- Injuries to nearby blood vessels
- A sensitive scar
These risks will be fully disclosed and explained by the surgeon, if at any point post surgery a patient suffers from any serious side effects – please consult your surgeon immediately.
