There are many! To name several1,2:
- A small incision (3-5 mm) above wrist crease on the forearm is all that is required compared to open scar on the palm of the hand or a potentially slightly larger incision with and endoscopic releases.
- The procedure itself takes only a matter of minutes.
- Carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance can be performed entirely within our office, with no need for a hospital or surgical center.
- Only local anesthesia is typically required.
- Sutures are rarely needed to close the small incision. Adhesive strips are often enough.
- There is no need for a brace or cast.
- The patient can return to most daily activities almost immediately (though we do emphasize caution – no reason to be fool hearty!
- Most patients will be able to return to work very quickly after surgery, typically within 3-6 days.
1. Rojo-Manaute JM, Capa-Grasa A, Chana-Rodriguez F, et al. Ultra-minimally invasive sonographically guided carpal tunnel release: a randomized clinical trial. J Ultrasound Med. 2016 Jun;35(6):1149-1157.
2. Henning PT, Yang L, Awan T, et al. Minimally invasive ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release: preliminary clinical results. J Ultrasound Med. 2018 Nov;37(11):2699-2706.
