Surgery may be the best option for treating carpal tunnel syndrome if conservative treatment options are ineffective. Surgery to decompress the median nerve is performed by cutting the ligament at the bottom of the wrist to release pressure on the nerve. The success of this type of surgery cannot be guaranteed, but for many patients, it can reduce symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling that are commonly associated with the condition and improve their quality of life.
Before undergoing carpal tunnel surgery, you may have questions for your surgeon. If you take the time to ask the right type of questions, it can put your mind at ease by better preparing you for the procedure and what to expect afterward.
Questions to Ask Before Carpal Tunnel Surgery
You can make a list of questions you have about carpal tunnel surgery and what to expect as you recover. Bring this list to your appointments before surgery and ask your doctor to provide you with answers. Some questions to ask before carpal tunnel surgery include:
- What is your experience and success in this type of surgery?
- What are the risks of having carpal tunnel surgery?
- Will the procedure be covered by my insurance?
- Are there certain things I should do to prepare for surgery?
- What restrictions will I have before and after surgery?
- Do I have to have anesthesia, or will I be awake?
- Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
- After surgery, can I drive myself home, or do I need a ride?
- Will the post-surgical pain be severe?
- What will I take for the pain?
- Will I be able to return to work, and if so, when?
- Will I need follow-up appointments?
- Will I need help around the house?
- When do the bandages come off and stitches come out?
- What if surgery does not resolve the pain and other symptoms?
Contact Our Maryland Peripheral Nerve Specialist
If you have questions about carpal tunnel surgery or are experiencing pain, contact our office for an evaluation. Dr. Williams can answer any questions you may have, create a treatment plan to help ease your pain, and get you back to living pain-free as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.
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