Carpal tunnel release is an outpatient surgery used to treat and, in some cases, heal carpal tunnel syndrome. During the open procedure, the surgeon will make an incision to open the wrist and enlarge the carpal tunnel area. The surgery may also be done endoscopically, using a thin, flexible tube and camera that are inserted through a tiny incision in the wrist. The camera guides the surgeon to complete the procedure without opening the wrist.
The success of the treatment is excellent. Most people are satisfied with the results of carpal tunnel release, especially those who have had significant night symptoms. The happiest patients tend to be those who seek treatment when they still have mild to moderate symptoms. Those patients are happy to have relief from nerve damage and can be quite happy with the use of their hand.