Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome results from increased pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This increased pressure can result in numbness of the fingers, pain, and weakness. If left untreated, irreversible nerve damage may occur. In Carpal Tunnel Surgery, the transverse ligament is divided thereby relieving the pressure on the median nerve. In Traditional or “Open” Carpal Tunnel Surgery, a longitudinal incision is made in the palm. While this technique does a very good job of relieving Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, the incision in the palm can be painful. In Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery, one or two small incisions are used in combination with an endoscope to visualize and divide the ligament. In some cases, the smaller incisions result in less post-operative pain and may allow patients to return to work and other activities more quickly than patients undergoing Open Carpal Tunnel Surgery. Dr. Fremling has been performing endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery for over 20 years. He prefers the two incision technique to optimize visualization and minimize the risk of complications.