Carpal tunnel release surgery should improve your symptoms and prevent permanent nerve damage
Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause persistent discomfort in your hand and wrist. You may experience numbness, tingling, burning sensations or weakness in your thumb and fingers. Symptoms often worsen at night and can interfere with sleep, work and everyday activities such as gripping objects or typing.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, private carpal tunnel release surgery is performed by experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeons specialising in hand and wrist conditions. The procedure aims to relieve pressure on the affected nerve, reduce symptoms and protect long-term hand function.
If splinting, activity modification or steroid injections have not provided lasting improvement, surgical treatment may be recommended to prevent permanent nerve damage.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and a strong ligament. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, along with several tendons that control finger movement.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure builds within this confined space, compressing the median nerve. This pressure can result from swelling of surrounding tendons, repetitive strain, hormonal changes or certain medical conditions.
Common symptoms include:
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if untreated. Early intervention can prevent progression to permanent nerve damage.
Carpal tunnel release surgery is designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
During the procedure, the surgeon divides the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. By releasing this ligament, more space is created within the tunnel, reducing pressure on the nerve.
The operation is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. A small incision is made in the palm or wrist, depending on the technique used.
Once the ligament is released, the skin is closed with stitches and a dressing is applied. Most patients return home the same day.
The goal of surgery is to relieve symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Many patients notice improvement in numbness and tingling soon after surgery, although full recovery may take several weeks or months depending on the severity of your condition.
The cost of carpal tunnel release surgery at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on your individual treatment plan as well as which consultant you choose to have treatment with.
During your consultation, your surgeon will confirm whether surgery is recommended and provide clear, transparent pricing information before you proceed.
Costs typically include the surgical procedure, local anaesthetic, hospital care and follow-up appointments. If nerve conduction studies are required, this will be discussed separately. Your initial consultation will be charged separately.
Some patients may be covered by private medical insurance. It is important to confirm your level of cover directly with your provider. For self-funding patients, the hospital team can provide detailed pricing information and explain available payment options.
Transparency ensures you feel fully informed before making a decision.
Choosing private treatment allows you to access prompt consultant-led care within a professional hospital environment.
Your consultation begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms. You may describe tingling or numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers, weakness when gripping objects, or difficulty performing fine motor tasks. Some patients notice that symptoms improve temporarily when shaking the hand.
A physical examination will assess sensation, strength and wrist function. In some cases, nerve conduction studies may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and measure the severity of nerve compression.
If symptoms are moderate to severe or have persisted despite conservative treatment, surgery may be advised. Your consultant will explain the procedure, potential benefits and expected recovery process in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Throughout your care, you will receive continuity with your consultant and support from an experienced clinical team.
After surgery, your hand may feel tender or swollen. Mild discomfort can usually be managed with simple pain relief.
You will be encouraged to move your fingers gently soon after the procedure to prevent stiffness. Heavy lifting and forceful gripping should be avoided until healing progresses.
Stitches are typically removed after around 10 to 14 days. The scar in the palm usually fades gradually over time.
Most patients return to light work within one to two weeks. Manual work or repetitive activities may require a longer recovery period.
If nerve compression has been present for a long time, recovery of sensation may take several months. In most cases, surgery successfully relieves nighttime symptoms and prevents further deterioration.
Follow-up appointments ensure that healing is progressing appropriately.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Hand function is essential for work and daily activities. Accessing timely surgical treatment can relieve symptoms quickly and protect long-term nerve health.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital, your care is delivered by experienced orthopaedic surgeons specialising in hand conditions, supported by modern facilities and structured follow-up.
If numbness, tingling or weakness in your hand is affecting your quality of life, arranging a specialist consultation is the first step.
To book a consultation to discuss carpal tunnel syndrome treatments with an orthopaedic surgeon near you, give us a call and one of our friendly advisers will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
Mon - Sun: 8am to 8pm
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