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Carpal tunnel decompression

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Learn the Carpal tunnel decompression surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Carpal tunnel decompression surgical procedure.

 

Median nerve compression at the wrist resulting in Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral nerve entrapment neuropathy. Patients will report tingling and numbness in the thumb index and middle fingers, difficulty manipulating small objects, aching around the wrist and a tendency to drop things. Night time symptoms of tingling disturb sleep and frequently numbness persists on waking. The loss of fine motor control is due to loss of sensory feedback as well as median-innervated intrinsic muscle weakness and the loss of thumb opposition. Clinical examination will confirm the diagnosis and neurophysiological tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis, provide a severity of grading or help in diagnosis in challenging or atypical presentation.

Open surgical decompression of the Carpal tunnel remains the gold standard although mini-open and endoscopic Carpal tunnel decompression have become popular in an attempt to reduce scar sensitivity following surgery and shorten return to work. Limited exposure techniques convey a higher risk of iatrogenic nerve injury. I use a traditional open approach in my practice.

Readers will also find the following associated techniques of interest:

Extended approach Carpal Tunnel decompression

Revision carpal tunnel decompression and application of Polyganics Vivosorb membrane

Combined median and ulnar nerve decompressions

Median nerve neurolysis, resection and reconstruction using Axogen AVANCE processed nerve allograft

Author: Mr Dominic Power FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Institution: The Queen Elisabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

In the USA contact: fda.gov
In the UK contact: gov.uk
In the EU contact: ema.europa.eu

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