Carpal Tunnel Surgery Dallas
Injury or repetitive motion can cause swelling in the carpal tunnel of the hand, resulting in a loss of sensation and limited use of the fingers. Plano and Frisco area patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome may regain the use of their hands after undergoing carpal tunnel surgery by board-certified plastic surgeon Charles A. Wallace, M.D.
What is Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
An opening in the hand where nerves and tendons pass is known as the carpal tunnel. Any swelling of this tunnel can compress the nerves, leading to numbness, tingling and a loss of movement in the fingers. Carpal tunnel surgery is performed to reduce the size of the carpal ligament covering the tunnel, reducing pressure and providing relief.
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, numbing only the area being worked on. A small incision is made near the wrist, allowing Dr. Wallace to trim the carpal ligament before securing skin and other tissue with sutures. A small instrument known as an endoscope, or tiny camera, is sometimes inserted underneath the skin to help with the procedure.
Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Carpal tunnel surgery is often the only way for those affected with this condition to obtain relief. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means that patients are able to return home the same day. This procedure may eliminate the risk of permanent nerve damage, which may occur when nerves are placed under constant pressure for an extended period.
Is Carpal Tunnel Surgery Right for Me?
Carpal tunnel surgery is an invasive procedure and should, therefore, be considered an option of last resort. It may, however, be ideal if:
- Other treatment efforts have failed to provide satisfactory results
- There is a possibility of permanent nerve damage
- Tumors or other unusual growths are affecting the median nerve or carpal tunnel
- You require excessive medication to control your symptoms
Elements of a Carpal Tunnel Surgery
A carpal tunnel procedure involves three things:
- Anesthesia to numb the area
- A tiny incision to allow the insertion of surgical instruments
- Trimming of the ligament covering the carpal tunnel
How Much Does Carpal Tunnel Surgery Cost?
Once a treatment plan has been established, we will then be able to provide you with a cost. At that time, we will discuss our various financing options with you. Some of our carpal tunnel procedures may be covered by insurance, in which case we will do our best to ensure you receive all the benefits you are entitled to under your plan.
For your convenience, we accept cash, check, Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express® and Discover®. Financing options are also available via Prosper® Healthcare Lending
After Your Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Although you may experience some numbness and tingling immediately following surgery, these sensations will gradually wear off over the next few days. You may regain some use of your hand in the week or so following surgery. However, you should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure adequate time for healing.
Getting Back to Normal Following Carpal Tunnel Surgery
How long it takes for you to return to normal will depend on whether your procedure was performed on your dominant or non-dominant hand, as well as the type of work you normally perform. When surgery is performed on your non-dominant hand, the activity may be restricted for one to two weeks. If performed on your dominant hand, you may need to limit activity for up to 12 weeks. Physical therapy could be needed in either instance to strengthen your hand and speed the healing process.
If you live in Plano, Frisco or anywhere in Dallas, TX, and have restricted movement due to carpal tunnel syndrome, find out if carpal tunnel surgery by Charles A. Wallace, M.D. could be right for you. Contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Wallace today for a complimentary consultation!
