Rabu, 25 Desember 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 is referred to as CTS and is a condition that commonly occurs as a result of repetitive strain as the median nerve becomes severely damaged due to stress and age. The reports of patients include mild tingling sensations, numbness, and weakness that can make it difficult to hold or pull on different items. If intervention is not sought, the symptoms will simply deteriorate with time.

Your surgeon will require a medical history and the completion of a physical assessment in order to identify the severity of symptoms. The X-ray imaging can aid in providing clarity on the injury and aid in the detection of the damage. Measures will include tenderness and range of movement allowing the professional to advise on the appropriate steps forward.

Once the exam has been performed, a test referred to as the Electromyogram and Nerve Conduction Velocity will be applied to detect nerve pressure, sensitivity, and the source for numb sensations. In cases of mild injuries, the practitioner will advise on the wearing of a brace for a specified period of time and non-steroidal therapy to manage symptoms. If conventional measures fail, it will be addressed with the application of endoscopic surgery.

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.

It is important that such measures are overseen by a professional and experienced surgeon due to the highly technical nature of the intervention. The procedure will be performed over 30 minutes and under general anesthesia. Depending on patient needs, the surgery may also be performed under regional anesthesia where the arm to be operated on will simply be made numb.

The out-patient procedure will allow the individual to move his or her arm immediately after the intervention is performed. It is important to adhere to the recovery methods as advised by the professional medical practitioner. One cannot use the arm to engage in strenuous activities for an average of 6 weeks to ensure that proper healing takes place.

If traditional methods for recovery do not prove effective in alleviating pain and facilitating recovery, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery may be required to achieve a fully functional and pain free hand. An experienced surgeon who is skilled in such intervention should be consulted to determine the extent of the injury. CTS should be evaluated by a professional to ensure that discomfort is addressed and relieved.




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