Carpal tunnel

What is carpal tunnel ?

Carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist, which is formed by bones and a ligament. It is the location where the median nerve and tendons pass from the forearm to the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. This condition can be caused by repetitive motions, injury, certain medical conditions, or even pregnancy. The available treatment options for this condition encompass rest, physical therapy, medication, and, when necessary, surgical intervention.

What is the cost for a carpal tunnel procedure?

The cost of carpal tunnel surgery can vary depending on several factors such as the location, type of procedure, surgeon’s experience, and insurance coverage.

In Tunisia, the cost of carpal tunnel surgery can range from $1,000 to $2,000, or even higher.

If the surgery is covered by insurance, the patient’s out-of-pocket expenses may be significantly lower, depending on their insurance plan. It is important to check with the insurance company and surgeon’s office to get an estimate of the cost of the procedure and any out-of-pocket expenses before proceeding with the surgery.

Carpal tunnel symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a specific medical condition that manifests in the hand and wrist region, stemming from the compression exerted on the median nerve during its passage through the carpal tunnel.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can encompass a range of manifestations, such as:

• Pain in the wrist, hand, and fingers ;
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers, particularly the thumb, index, and middle fingers ;
• Weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects ;
• A sensation of swelling in the fingers, even though they may not actually be swollen ;
• Pain that worsens at night or during repetitive activities, such as typing or using a mouse ;
• In the event that you encounter any of these symptoms, it is of utmost importance to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. By doing so, you can ensure a precise diagnosis and receive the most suitable course of treatment for your specific condition ;
• Confirmation of carpal tunnel diagnosis ;

If you suspect that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

There are several tests and procedures that can be used to confirm a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, including :

• Physical exam : A healthcare provider will perform a physical exam to assess the strength, sensation, and range of motion in your hand and wrist ;
• Nerve conduction study : This test measures the speed and strength of electrical signals traveling through your nerves. A small electrode is placed on your skin and a mild electrical current is applied to stimulate the nerve ;
• Electromyogram (EMG) : This test measures the electrical activity of your muscles when they contract and when they are at rest. A small needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to measure the activity ;
• Ultrasound or MRI : These imaging tests can be used to view the inside of your wrist and identify any abnormalities or damage to the tissues ;

Based on the results of these tests, your healthcare provider can confirm a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, as early treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your overall quality of life.

How is carpal tunnel surgery performed ?

Carpal tunnel surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and can be done using either open or endoscopic techniques.

During an open surgery, a small incision is made in the wrist to access the carpal tunnel. To alleviate the pressure exerted on the median nerve, the transverse carpal ligament, which constructs the upper portion of the tunnel, is meticulously severed during the procedure. Subsequently, the incision is attentively sealed using either sutures or staples, ensuring proper closure.

In an endoscopic surgery, a small camera and specialized instruments are inserted through one or more small incisions in the wrist. The surgeon uses the camera to guide the instruments to cut the transverse carpal ligament, which relieves pressure on the median nerve.

Both procedures typically take less than an hour to complete, and the patient can usually return home the same day. Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the type of procedure performed, but most people can resume their normal activities within a few weeks after surgery.

Post-operative carpal tunnel

After carpal tunnel surgery, it is important to follow post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing and a successful recovery. Following the surgical procedure, typical post-operative instructions may encompass:

• Keeping the hand elevated and immobilized for several days after surgery ;
• Using ice packs to reduce swelling and pain ;
• Taking pain medication as prescribed ;
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry ;
• Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks ;
• Performing exercises and physical therapy as recommended by the surgeon to regain strength and mobility in the hand and wrist ;

It is also important to attend any follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and ensure that there are no complications. With proper care and adherence to post-operative instructions, most people can expect to recover fully within a few weeks to several months after carpal tunnel surgery.