Carpal tunnel syndrome
PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a disease of modern times. Today's lifestyle leads to a decrease in physical activity, improper posture, and keeping our bodies in a single, unnatural position. Initially, it is manifested by changes in sensation, followed by tingling, stinging or burning sensation in the first three fingers of the hand and very often during night. Surgery, in most cases, leads to the elimination of problems. With this syndrome, there is pressure on the central nerve in the carpal canal at the root of the fist. Pressure on this nerve may be caused by different processes as well as constant repetitive movements of the fingers and hands. All this leads to the narrowing of the median nerve space and consequently its damage. Mechanical pressure on this nerve may also be a result of certain post-traumatic conditions. It should also be taken into consideration that this syndrome may occure as an occupational hazard, or if the patient has experienced degenerative changes in joints.
CANDIDATES: People of certain occupations often have this disease, such as people who do construction, typists, hairdressers, etc. It also often occurs in people who work a lot on the computer. It is more common in women than men, especially between 40 and 50 years of age. The best candidates are those who start treatment at an early stage of the disease, so when the patient notices the first signs, it is necessary to get the screening and start surgical treatment as soon as possible.
PREPARATION OF THE PATIENT FOR SURGERY: After examinations at our polyclinic and after certain clinical tests are done, it will be determined if this syndrome exists and if the patient has experienced difficulties with sense of touch, movement or weakness of the hand muscles. Before deciding on surgery, some additional diagnostic processing might be required. After the diagnosis is made, in agreement with the patient, the date of surgery is determined. Medicines that reduce blood viscosity and any anti-inflammatory drugs (Aspirin, Andol, etc.) should be avoided 2 to 3 days before and after the procedure.
PROCEDURE PROCESS: The procedure is performed at our polyclinic under local anesthesia using minimally invasive technique and after the procedure the patient is able to go home. The procedure takes about 30 minutes. It is performed by an experienced plastic surgery specialist using bloodless technique with nerve visualization. The surgery itself is performed through a short surgical incision at the base of the palm where the transverse ligament that forms the arch of the carpal canal is being cut. Further detailed information about the procedure will be provided to you at our polyclinic during your examination.
RECOVERY: After the procedure, the arm is wrapped in a bandage while fingers are left free and slight movement of the fingers is recommended. The patient will be advised to stay away from physical labor for a certain period of time. At the first check up after the procedure, bandages are reduced and the stitches are removed after 12 to 15 days. After that, the patient should undergo physical therapy. In most cases, the strange sensation and numbness disappear within the first day of the procedure, although it is possible for the fingers to tingle for a short period of time, depending on how long the nerve had been exposed to pressure before the procedure. It may sometimes take several months to fully recover and for all symptoms to disappear. With proper physical therapy, hand grip and finger mobility returns within 3-4 months. The scar on the palm of your hand should be treated with special creams that will be recommended to the patient by the surgeon.
PRECAUTIONS: Despite the fact that all the measures will be taken, complications, although rare, may occur. However, it is also patient's responsibility to avoid risks and complications. At the first examination, your doctor will inform you of all possible complications and precautions to be taken into consideration.
