Living with carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact your daily life, from disrupting sleep to making simple tasks challenging. Quite likely, you’re considering surgical treatment, and if you are, you may have come across two treatment solutions — endoscopic and carpal tunnel surgery.
Both have been the go-to treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome and other conditions involving the hand and wrist.
However, which one is right for you? We’ll answer this question and more below.
Read on to learn more about endoscopic and open carpal tunnel surgery. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better grasp of which option is best for you.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Carpal tunnel surgery, regardless of the approach, aims to relieve pressure on your median nerve by cutting the carpal ligament that forms the roof of the tunnel. This creates more space for the nerve and tendons, reducing pain and improving function in your hand and wrist.
How It Works
The traditional open-surgery approach has been used successfully for decades. During this procedure, your surgeon makes a single incision (about two inches long) in your palm. This provides a clear view of the carpal ligament and surrounding structures.
Advantages
The main advantage of open surgery is that it gives your surgeon direct visualization of the surgical area. This can be particularly beneficial if you have unusual anatomy or if there are other conditions in your wrist that need attention.
How Long the Recovery Process Takes
Recovery from open surgery typically takes two to four weeks before you can return to light activities. You may notice some palm tenderness during this time, and full grip strength usually returns after several weeks. However, recovery can take months if the radial nerve was compressed for a long time.
The Endoscopic Approach
Endoscopic surgery is a less invasive approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome.
How It Works
Endoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses tiny incisions and a small camera to perform the same procedure.
Your surgeon makes one or two small incisions (about half an inch each) in your wrist or palm. Through these openings, a thin tube with a camera is inserted. The camera guides your surgeon in releasing the carpal ligament.
Unique Benefits
This approach typically results in less palm pain immediately after surgery and often allows for a quicker return to daily activities. Many patients can resume light activities within a couple of weeks. However, complete recovery still takes about the same time as open surgery.
Which Approach Is Right for You?
The choice between endoscopic and open surgery depends on several factors.
First, your specific anatomy and condition severity will play a major role in the decision. Your surgeon will also consider any other hand or wrist problems that may need treatment at the same time.
A surgeon’s expertise and experience with each technique can also be a deciding factor. Most importantly, your surgeon will factor in your personal preferences and lifestyle needs.
Both procedures have similar long-term success rates, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their symptoms. At OrthoUnited, we offer these procedures at our world-class surgical centers, and we can also guide you on which procedure is right for you.
What To Expect During Recovery
Regardless of which procedure you choose, you’ll need to follow specific post-operative care instructions. This includes keeping your incision clean and dry, performing prescribed exercises, and gradually returning to activities as directed by your healthcare team.
The initial recovery period typically spans one to six weeks, during which you can expect to return to light keyboard work within the first two weeks.
Your grip strength will continue to improve over two to three months, with complete healing occurring within six months.
Your Next Steps
If carpal tunnel syndrome is affecting your quality of life, surgical treatment can provide significant relief. At OrthoUnited, our team of orthopedic specialists can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach for your specific needs.
Schedule an appointment today and take hold of your capabilities and quality of life once more.
