Plastic Surgery · Jaipur Hospital
Carpal Tunnel Surgery in Jaipur
Your fingers go numb and your grip feels weak. We offer a clear assessment and a simple plan for surgery.
- Serving Jaipur since 1991 (35 years)
- NABH accredited
- 24×7 emergency & ICU
- Cashless: RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS + 32 insurers
- Operation time
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Anaesthesia
- Local or Regional anaesthesia
- Recovery
- Light use in 1 to 2 weeks, full grip in 4 to 6 weeks
- Price
- ₹35,000 to ₹80,000typical range in India; ask us for an estimate
Numb fingers, weak grip
My hand goes numb and my grip feels weak
At first it may feel like a slight tingle in your thumb and fingers. Over time the numbness can become steady, and simple things like buttoning a shirt or holding a cup become hard. Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect both hands.
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Numbness and tingling
This causes numbness and tingling of the hand. Symptoms usually start slowly and may get worse over time.
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Weak, smaller muscles
The muscles of the hand or wrist can become weak and smaller because of severe pinching of the median nerve.
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Worse on thumb side
Symptoms tend to be worse on the thumb side of the hand, and may get worse as time passes.
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Both hands affected
It is not uncommon for a person to have carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands.
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Not only from work
Repetitive work plays a part, but injury, pregnancy, diabetes and thyroid disease are also linked.
Swelling of the tissues inside the tunnel can press on the median nerve when this part of the body is injured or tight.
Why Jaipur Hospital
You may be worried about time off work, the cost, and how long your hand will take to recover.
Your care plan
Your first steps with us
- 1 Call or email us to book an OPD visit
- 2 Meet your surgeon and get your hand examined
- 3 Review your options and a cost estimate
- 4 Plan surgery, then follow-up visits as you recover
how the operation is done
Carpal tunnel release is surgery to take pressure off the median nerve. Your surgeon cuts the ligament pressing on the tunnel, so the nerve and tendons have more room. The operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes under local or regional anaesthesia. Most people go home the same day.
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Open Carpal Tunnel Release
A standard cut in the palm, with a direct view of the ligament. Your surgeon will discuss if this suits you.
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Endoscopic Release
A single or two-portal method, with a smaller scar and a faster return. Your surgeon will discuss whether it fits your case.
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Mini-Open Release
A small cut with direct division of the ligament. Your surgeon will discuss this option with you.
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Ultrasound-guided Release
A percutaneous method done under imaging. Your surgeon will discuss whether this option is right for you.
Why patients trust us
- 1991 Serving Jaipur for 35 years
- NABH Accredited hospital
- 1 Plastic Surgery consultants
- 24×7 Emergency, ICU and ambulance
- 35 Cashless schemes and insurers
What research shows about carpal tunnel release
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several weeks to several months
Recovery from carpal tunnel surgery takes time, and may take longer if the nerve has been compressed for a long period.
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usually improves pain and function
Studies of carpal tunnel release report that it usually improves pain and function for the patients who have it.
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both hands
It is not uncommon for a person to have carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands.
If it is left untreated
If the median nerve stays pinched, the muscles of the hand or wrist can become weak and smaller. Numbness, tingling and loss of function can follow if the condition is not treated. Carpal tunnel release is surgery to treat this, and it is not without risks.
life after treatment
Most people return to light use of the hand in 1 to 2 weeks and to a full grip in 4 to 6 weeks. Splinting and physiotherapy are part of recovery, and your surgeon will guide you.
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Back to light tasks
Most people can use the hand lightly within 1 to 2 weeks, once the surgeon says it is fine.
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Grip builds over time
A full grip usually returns in 4 to 6 weeks, and physiotherapy helps strengthen the wrist and hand.
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Home the same day
Carpal tunnel surgery is usually a daycare procedure, so most people do not stay overnight.
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Care for both hands
If both hands are affected, your surgeon will plan the timing with you.
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Frequently asked questions
Questions patients ask about carpal tunnel surgery
What does carpal tunnel release involve?
In short
Carpal tunnel release at Jaipur Hospital involves a surgeon dividing the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. The operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes under local or regional anaesthesia and is done as a daycare procedure. You can expect light use of the hand within one to two weeks.
In detail
During the procedure the surgeon cuts the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. This makes more room for the median nerve and the tendons that pass through the tunnel.
Techniques include open release with a standard palm incision, endoscopic release using one or two small portals, mini-open release through a smaller cut, and ultrasound-guided percutaneous release. The choice depends on the surgeon's assessment and your anatomy. The hospital stay is typically daycare, and the typical price range in India is ₹35,000 to ₹80,000.
A common belief
Many people think the nerve itself is cut or removed.
What actually happens
That is not true. The ligament is divided so the nerve has space. Recovery takes weeks, not days, and hand therapy helps regain strength.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Before surgery you will have a clinical examination and usually a nerve conduction study to confirm the diagnosis. Your surgeon will explain which technique suits you and what to expect during recovery. Plan for splinting and hand therapy after the operation. Full grip strength often returns in four to six weeks.
Which tests and scans do I need before carpal tunnel release?
In short
Before carpal tunnel release at Jaipur Hospital, the main test is a nerve conduction study with electromyography of the median nerve. This confirms the diagnosis and shows how severe the compression is. Routine blood tests may be done if general anaesthesia is planned, but most cases use local or regional anaesthesia.
In detail
The nerve conduction study measures how fast electrical signals travel through the median nerve across the wrist. Slowed signals confirm carpal tunnel syndrome. Electromyography checks the hand muscles for signs of nerve damage. These tests are done in our in-house diagnostic laboratory.
Imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI is not routinely needed unless the doctor suspects a fracture, tumour, or other structural problem. Your surgeon will order only the tests required for your case. The results guide the decision on timing and technique.
A common belief
Patients often expect a scan like an MRI.
What actually happens
For typical carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve studies give the information the surgeon needs — how well the median nerve works. Scans add cost and time without changing the plan unless there is an unusual finding on exam.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
On the day of surgery, you may need basic blood work if you have medical conditions like diabetes or if sedation is planned. The procedure is a daycare operation of 30 to 60 minutes under local or regional anaesthesia. The typical price range in India is ₹35,000 to ₹80,000. Recovery includes splinting and physiotherapy.
How painful is carpal tunnel surgery and the early recovery?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, carpal tunnel surgery is performed under local or regional anaesthesia, so you do not feel pain during the operation. After the anaesthetic wears off, you can expect mild to moderate discomfort at the incision site for a few days, which is usually managed with simple pain relief.
In detail
The procedure itself is not painful because the wrist is numbed completely. You may feel pressure or movement but no sharp pain. After surgery, soreness, swelling, and stiffness are common for the first week. Most patients need only over-the-counter pain medicines for a short time.
Elevating the hand and moving the fingers gently as advised helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Recovery of full grip strength typically takes four to six weeks.
A common belief
Some patients expect severe pain, but most find the discomfort much less than the carpal tunnel symptoms they had before surgery.
What actually happens
The key is keeping the hand elevated and starting gentle finger movements early to prevent stiffness, which can cause more pain than the incision itself.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Take prescribed or recommended pain relief regularly for the first 24 to 48 hours, then as needed. Keep the hand elevated above heart level when resting. Follow the hand therapy exercises given by your physiotherapist. Stitches are usually removed at 10 to 14 days.
How long does recovery usually take after carpal tunnel surgery?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, recovery after carpal tunnel surgery typically allows light use of the hand within 1 to 2 weeks, while full grip strength returns in 4 to 6 weeks. The operation itself takes 30 to 60 minutes and is done as a daycare procedure under local or regional anaesthesia. Individual recovery speed depends on how long the nerve was compressed and your general health.
In detail
The surgeon cuts the ligament pressing on the median nerve, creating more room for the nerve and tendons. Immediately after surgery the wrist is bandaged and often splinted. You begin gentle finger movements the same day to prevent stiffness.
The dressing is usually changed at the first follow-up visit. Stitches, if not absorbable, are removed around 10 to 14 days. Most people return to desk work or light tasks within the first two weeks.
Heavier lifting, repetitive gripping, or sports may need 4 to 6 weeks. If the nerve was compressed for a long time, sensation and strength can continue improving for several months.
A common belief
Many people expect instant relief, but the nerve heals at its own pace.
What actually happens
If compression was present for months or years, numbness and weakness may improve slowly over several months even after a successful release. Patience and consistent hand exercises make the difference.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Keep the hand elevated, do the prescribed finger exercises, and avoid soaking the wound until your surgeon clears it. Attend all follow-up appointments for wound checks and splint adjustments. Gradually increase activity as comfort allows.
How will tendon, nerve, or muscle damage be assessed for carpal tunnel surgery?
In short
Before carpal tunnel surgery at Jaipur Hospital the surgeon assesses nerve function with a clinical examination and usually orders a nerve conduction study. This test measures how well the median nerve carries signals and shows the severity of compression. Tendon and muscle strength are checked by testing grip and pinch.
In detail
The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome relies on symptoms such as numbness, tingling and weakness on the thumb side of the hand, together with nerve conduction study results.
The surgeon examines for wasting of the thenar muscles at the base of the thumb, which indicates prolonged nerve compression. Tinel's sign at the wrist and Phalen's test help confirm the site.
Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI is not routine but may be used if the diagnosis is unclear or a mass is suspected. The nerve conduction study also provides a baseline to compare recovery after release.
A common belief
Some people think an MRI or scan is always needed.
What actually happens
In most cases the clinical exam and nerve conduction study give all the information required for surgery planning.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Bring any previous nerve test reports to your consultation. The surgeon will repeat the clinical examination and may order fresh nerve conduction studies if the earlier ones are more than a few months old.
How will appearance, function, and realistic expectations be discussed for carpal tunnel release?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital the surgeon discusses the scar appearance, expected hand function and realistic recovery timelines during the pre-operative consultation. The typical scar is small and fades over months. Light use returns in 1 to 2 weeks, full grip in 4 to 6 weeks.
In detail
The surgeon explains the differences between open, endoscopic and mini-open techniques. Open release leaves a scar in the palm; endoscopic uses one or two smaller incisions. Both divide the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure.
The surgeon outlines risks such as a sensitive scar, infection, nerve or vessel injury, and the small chance of needing more surgery. Functional goals — relief of numbness, pain and return of grip strength — are set based on your nerve status and symptom duration.
A common belief
Patients sometimes expect instant normal function.
What actually happens
Recovery takes weeks to months, and the final scar appearance varies. The surgeon will be honest about what is achievable.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Ask the surgeon to show where the incision will be and what the scar usually looks like at three and six months. Discuss your work and hobby demands so the rehabilitation plan fits your needs. The surgeon will give a typical price range of ₹35,000 to ₹80,000 and confirm daycare stay.
Why might my doctor recommend carpal tunnel release?
In short
Your doctor may recommend carpal tunnel release at Jaipur Hospital when non-surgical treatments have not relieved your symptoms, when symptoms have lasted a long time without improvement, or when there is evidence of nerve damage such as weakness or wasting of the hand muscles. The aim is to reduce pain and improve hand function.
In detail
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling, pain and loss of function because the median nerve is compressed. Initial management usually includes wrist splints, activity modification, physiotherapy, steroid injections and pain relief.
If these measures fail to control symptoms, or if nerve conduction studies show significant compression with muscle wasting, surgery becomes the next step. The procedure divides the ligament pressing on the nerve, which usually improves pain and function. Risks include bleeding, infection, nerve or vessel injury, a sensitive scar and the possibility of further surgery.
A common belief
Some patients hope symptoms will disappear on their own.
What actually happens
In reality, long-standing compression can lead to long-term muscle wasting and weakness that may not fully reverse even after surgery. Early evaluation matters.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Discuss your symptom history and any previous treatments with your surgeon. Bring any nerve conduction reports to the appointment. The surgeon will examine your hand and decide if release is appropriate. Recovery involves splinting and therapy for several weeks.
How should I prepare in the days before carpal tunnel release?
In short
In the days before carpal tunnel release at Jaipur Hospital, follow your surgeon's specific instructions. Usually, you should stop smoking, as it slows healing. Tell the team about all medicines you take, especially blood thinners, which may need to be paused. Arrange for an attendant to take you home after the daycare procedure.
In detail
Your surgeon may ask you to stop certain medicines a few days before surgery. If you take blood thinners, diabetes medicines, or herbal supplements, discuss them at the pre-operative visit. Keep the hand and wrist clean; avoid cuts, bites, or infections near the surgical site.
If you develop a fever, cold, or skin infection, inform the hospital — the procedure may be rescheduled. Prepare your home for limited hand use: set up easy-to-open containers, loose clothing, and a comfortable place to rest with the hand elevated. Physiotherapy appointments can be scheduled in advance for after surgery.
A common belief
People often forget to stop herbal supplements or blood thinners in time, which can increase bleeding risk.
What actually happens
Also, many do not plan for limited hand use at home. Simple steps like pre-cutting food or setting up voice commands on your phone make recovery smoother.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
On the day of surgery, wear loose sleeves that can roll above the elbow. The operation takes 30 to 60 minutes under local or regional anaesthesia. You go home the same day. The typical price range in India is ₹35,000 to ₹80,000. Light use returns in one to two weeks, full grip in four to six weeks with physiotherapy.
What factors could make carpal tunnel surgery riskier for me?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, factors that can increase risk include diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, smoking, obesity, previous wrist trauma, and long-standing nerve compression with muscle wasting. The anaesthesia team also reviews heart and lung conditions that may affect the choice of local or regional block.
In detail
Diabetes and thyroid disorders can slow wound healing and make nerves more vulnerable. Rheumatoid arthritis may alter wrist anatomy and increase scar sensitivity. Smoking reduces blood flow to the healing tissues. Obesity makes the procedure technically harder and raises infection risk.
If the median nerve has been compressed for a long time, the muscles at the base of the thumb may have wasted, and recovery of strength can be incomplete. The surgeon assesses each factor during the pre-operative visit and may optimise medical control before scheduling surgery.
A common belief
Many patients think only the surgery itself matters.
What actually happens
In fact, your general health and how long the nerve has been compressed strongly influence healing and final strength.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Share your full medical history, current medicines, and any previous wrist injuries at the consultation. Blood sugar, thyroid levels, and inflammatory markers may be checked. Stopping smoking even a few weeks before surgery helps healing.
Which symptoms are expected after carpal tunnel surgery, and which need urgent medical attention?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, expected symptoms after carpal tunnel surgery include mild to moderate pain at the incision, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and a tender scar. Numbness or tingling in the fingers may persist for weeks as the nerve recovers. Urgent symptoms that need immediate attention are increasing redness or warmth around the wound, pus or foul-smelling discharge, fever above 38°C, sudden severe pain not relieved by medication, sudden loss of finger movement or sensation, and heavy bleeding that soaks the dressing.
In detail
The procedure divides the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Normal post-operative inflammation causes pain, swelling, and bruising that peak in the first few days and then subside.
The palm has many nerve endings, so scar tenderness is common and improves with massage once healed. Nerve recovery is gradual; tingling or numbness can last several weeks, especially if compression was long-standing. Warning signs of infection include spreading redness, heat, pus, and fever.
A haematoma may cause sudden swelling and severe pain. Nerve injury or compartment syndrome can present as sudden loss of movement or feeling. Early detection allows prompt treatment.
A common belief
Patients often mistake the lingering tingling for surgical failure, but nerve recovery is slow.
What actually happens
Conversely, a warm, red, throbbing wound is not just normal healing — it can be infection needing antibiotics. Knowing the difference prevents delayed care.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Take pain medicine as directed, keep the hand elevated, and do gentle finger exercises. Check the wound daily for changes. If you notice any urgent symptoms, go to the 24×7 emergency department at Jaipur Hospital or call the hospital immediately.
FAQ library
Questions and answers about carpal tunnel surgery
When you contact us
Get a clear plan for your hand
Call or email Jaipur Hospital to book an OPD visit, and we will review your reports and explain your options before you decide.
- A consultation with a plastic surgeon in the OPD
- Your scans and reports reviewed, with tests done in-house if you need them (laboratory, X-ray and imaging)
- Your options explained in plain words, including whether you need surgery at all
- A cost estimate before you decide
- Help with cashless treatment under RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS and empanelled insurers and TPAs
- Follow-up visits after your treatment
Overview
Carpal Tunnel Surgery: what to know
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
- Carpal tunnel
- A narrow space at the front of your wrist.
- Transverse carpal ligament
- A band of tissue running across the top of the tunnel.
- Nerve compression
- Pressure on the median nerve causing symptoms.
- Surgical release
- Cutting the ligament creates more room for the nerve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is squeezed as it passes through a narrow space at the front of your wrist. This space is called the carpal tunnel. A band of tissue called the ligament runs across the top of the tunnel. When the ligament presses down, the nerve has less room.
The tissues inside the tunnel can also swell and press on the median nerve when the wrist is injured or tight.
This pressure causes numbness and tingling of the hand, pain, and loss of function if the condition is not treated. Symptoms usually start slowly. They may get worse over time. They tend to be worse on the thumb side of the hand. It is not uncommon for a person to have carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands.
Carpal tunnel release is surgery used to treat this painful condition. The surgeon cuts through the ligament that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel. This makes more room for the median nerve and the tendons that pass through the tunnel.
Carpal tunnel symptoms and signs that need same-day care
- Loss of feeling or use Loss of feeling or loss of use of your hand.
- Wrist or hand injury A hand or wrist injury, such as a sprain or fracture.
- Worsening muscle weakness New or worsening weakness, or shrinking muscles in the hand.
The main symptoms are numbness and tingling of the hand, pain, and loss of function. Symptoms usually start slowly and may get worse over time. They tend to be worse on the thumb side of the hand. Many people have the condition in both hands.
When the median nerve is badly pinched for a long time, the muscles of the hand or wrist become weak and actually get smaller. This is a sign that the nerve has been under pressure for a while.
Come to the OPD or emergency department the same day if you notice any of these:
- loss of feeling or loss of use of your hand
- a hand or wrist injury, such as a sprain or fracture
- new or worsening weakness, or shrinking muscles in the hand
Do not wait for the problem to become very painful before you seek help. Loss of function can happen when the nerve pressure is not treated. At Jaipur Hospital, our team can examine your hand and advise you the same day.
Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome and who is at higher risk
- Family history
- Some inherit a smaller carpal tunnel from family members.
- Injury or vibration
- Wrist fractures, sprains, or repeated use of vibrating tools.
- Medical conditions
- Linked to pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Tissue swelling
- Swelling inside the tight tunnel presses on the nerve.
Doctors used to think carpal tunnel syndrome was caused only by an overuse injury or a repetitive motion of the wrist or hand, often at work. It is now thought that these can be partly responsible. Other things also play a part.
- Some people have a small carpal tunnel because the condition runs in their family.
- An injury can cause it, including a sprain or fracture, or repeated use of a vibrating tool.
- It has also been linked to pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Swelling of the tissues inside the tunnel can press on the median nerve when this part of the body is injured or tight.
Because the condition can run in families and often affects both hands, tell your surgeon if other people in your family have the same symptoms. Tell your surgeon about any of the conditions listed above as well, because they can affect your care.
How carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed
Your surgeon will ask about your symptoms and examine your hand and wrist. The pattern of symptoms matters. Numbness and tingling that is worse on the thumb side of the hand points to the median nerve.
Your healthcare provider performs an electromyography and a nerve conduction test of the median nerve. These tests check the median nerve. After the tests, your provider can determine that you have carpal tunnel syndrome.
A diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is about the only reason to have carpal tunnel surgery. Even then, your surgeon will likely want you to try nonsurgical treatments first.
Carpal tunnel treatment without surgery, and when surgery is advised
Open release
- Standard palm cut Uses a standard incision in the palm with direct nerve view.
Endoscopic release
- Small keyhole portals Uses one or two small portals and leaves a smaller scar.
Mini-open release
- Direct small incision Uses a small incision with direct division of the ligament.
Ultrasound release
- Image-guided method Done through the skin under guided ultrasound imaging.
Nonsurgical treatment is usually tried first. Options may include:
- over-the-counter pain medicines
- physical therapy
- changes to the equipment you use at work
- wrist splints
- shots of steroids in the wrist to help ease swelling and pain
Your surgeon will advise which option suits you. Surgery may be advised when nonsurgical treatment does not relieve the pain, or when the symptoms have lasted a long time with no relief.
Carpal tunnel release usually improves pain and function. As with most surgeries, it is not without risks.
These include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the median nerve or nerves that branch out from it
- Injury to nearby blood vessels
- A sensitive scar
- The need for more surgery
Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you.
The operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. It is usually done under local or regional anaesthesia, so your wrist is made numb, and you may be given medicine to make you sleepy. In some cases, general anaesthesia is used, which means medicines are used to put you into a deep sleep during surgery.
Most people go home the same day, as this is usually daycare surgery. Light use of the hand usually returns in 1 to 2 weeks, and full grip in 4 to 6 weeks.
Recovery from carpal tunnel surgery takes time, and it can range from several weeks to several months. Recovery may take even longer if the nerve has been compressed for a long period of time. Recovery involves splinting your wrist and physical therapy to strengthen and heal the wrist and hand.
There are different ways to do the release. Open release uses a standard incision in the palm and a direct view of the nerve. Endoscopic release uses one or two small portals and leaves a smaller scar. Mini-open release uses a small incision with direct division of the ligament. Ultrasound-guided release is done through the skin under imaging. At Jaipur Hospital, our surgical team will advise which type of release suits you.
The typical range in India is ₹35,000 to ₹80,000. The type of release your surgeon advises can change the cost. Ask us for an estimate.
Preparing for Carpal Tunnel Surgery at Jaipur Hospital
Do
- Bring all medical reports Bring recent reports, blood tests, and X-rays to your visit.
- List all your medicines Tell your surgeon about every prescribed medicine and herbal product.
- Bring an adult attendant Arrange for a responsible family member to take you home.
Avoid
- Do not stop medicines alone Never stop or alter any medication on your own.
- Do not drive yourself Avoid driving home after receiving surgical anaesthesia.
Your surgeon will tell you which tests you need before carpal tunnel surgery. These may include routine blood tests and a general fitness check. If your diagnosis is not already clear, your surgeon may ask for an electromyography and nerve conduction test of the median nerve. Bring your recent reports, including any nerve tests, blood tests and X-rays, to your visit.
Tell your surgeon about every medicine you take. This includes blood thinners, medicines for diabetes or blood pressure, and herbal products. Do not stop or change any medicine on your own. If you take medicine for diabetes, ask your surgeon how to take it on the day of surgery.
Tell your surgeon if you have diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis or are pregnant, as these conditions have been linked to carpal tunnel syndrome.
You will be given clear instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before the operation. Follow these instructions exactly. Arrange for a responsible adult, such as a family member or attendant, to come with you and take you home. Wear loose clothes with a sleeve that can be rolled up easily.
Bring your identity proof, insurance or TPA card, and all reports. Because you may feel sleepy after anaesthesia, do not drive yourself home. Tell your surgeon about your work, especially if you use a vibrating tool or do repeated hand movements. Call us if you develop a cold, fever or skin infection near the wrist before the operation.
How Carpal Tunnel Surgery Is Done
- Pre-surgery checks The surgical team confirms reports and verifies the correct hand.
- Giving anaesthesia Local or regional medicine numbs the wrist comfortably.
- Dividing the ligament The surgeon cuts the band of tissue to relieve pressure.
- Recovery and discharge Rest briefly before going home the same day with instructions.
The aim of carpal tunnel surgery is to cut the ligament that presses on the median nerve at the wrist. This makes more room for the nerve and the tendons that pass through the tunnel.
The operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You will usually have local or regional anaesthesia. Your wrist is made numb, and you may be given medicine to make you sleepy and not feel pain. With local anaesthesia, you may be awake but comfortable. In some cases, general anaesthesia is used, which puts you into a deep sleep during surgery. The anaesthesia team will check your health and explain the plan before the operation.
Several techniques are used for carpal tunnel release. In open release, the surgeon makes a standard incision in the palm and can see the ligament directly. In endoscopic release, the surgeon uses one or two small portals, which means a smaller scar and a faster return.
In mini-open release, a small incision is used and the ligament is divided under direct view. In ultrasound-guided release, the surgeon works through the skin using imaging to guide the release. Your surgeon will advise which technique suits you, based on your hand, your symptoms and the examination.
On the day, our surgical team will check your reports and confirm which hand will be operated on. The anaesthesia team will make you comfortable. After the release, you will rest for a short time and then go home the same day, as this is usually a daycare procedure. Before you leave, you will be told how to care for your hand and when to come back.
Risks and Complications of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
As with most surgeries, carpal tunnel release is not without its risks.
The listed risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the median nerve or the nerves that branch from it
- Injury to nearby blood vessels
Some people develop a sensitive scar. Some people need more surgery.
Bleeding can happen during or after the operation. Infection can happen in the wound. Injury to the median nerve can affect feeling in the hand, and injury to nearby blood vessels can cause bleeding. A sensitive scar can make the palm tender. Further surgery may be needed if symptoms do not settle. The studies do not give one how-often figure that applies to every patient.
Your surgeon will discuss the risks that matter for you before you sign consent. Your surgeon will plan the release to reduce these risks, but no operation can remove them all.
Recovery After Carpal Tunnel Surgery
- Day of surgery Head home the same day and protect the healing hand.
- First few days Wear your splint and follow wound care instructions carefully.
- 1 to 2 weeks Light hand activities and gentle movement usually return.
- 4 to 6 weeks Full gripping strength is expected to return.
You will usually go home on the same day as your carpal tunnel surgery. In the first few days, follow the wound care advice given by our team. You will usually wear a splint and have physical therapy to strengthen and heal the wrist and hand.
Light use of the hand usually returns in 1 to 2 weeks, and full grip in 4 to 6 weeks.
Recovery from carpal tunnel surgery takes time. It can be anywhere from several weeks to several months. It may take longer if the nerve has been compressed for a long period. Arrange for a family member or attendant to help you at home for the first few days, because you may need to protect the hand.
Call the hospital if you have bleeding that does not stop, fever or discharge from the wound, new or worsening numbness or weakness in the hand, or a scar that is very sensitive. Also call if your pain is getting worse instead of better, or if you are worried about anything.
Keep your follow-up appointments so your surgeon can check the wound and your hand function. Your surgeon will tell you when you can drive or return to work. Your surgeon may suggest changes to the equipment you use at work when you return.
Results of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Carpal tunnel release is done to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. The operation makes more room for the median nerve and the tendons in the tunnel. In studies, it usually improves pain and function. Recovery takes time, and the full benefit may come over several weeks to several months. If the nerve has been compressed for a long time, recovery may take longer.
Some people need more surgery after a carpal tunnel release. The studies do not give one how-often figure for symptoms coming back or for further surgery. Results differ from person to person, and your surgeon will talk to you about what to expect in your case. The aim is to relieve pressure on the nerve, and your surgeon will check your progress at follow-up.
Carpal Tunnel Surgery Cost and Insurance in Jaipur
The typical range for carpal tunnel surgery in India is ₹35,000 to ₹80,000. Ask us for an estimate for your case. The final bill can change with the type of release, the tests you need, the anaesthesia, and the hospital charges. Carpal tunnel surgery is usually a daycare procedure, so most patients do not stay overnight.
The range is a guide, not a fixed price for every patient. Your estimate will be based on your case.
Jaipur Hospital is a NABH-accredited, privately run multispeciality hospital. We work with RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS, and a panel of private insurers and TPAs. Coverage depends on your scheme, your policy, and approval. Please ask us before your surgery so you can plan your costs. If you have insurance, bring your card and policy details to your visit.
For RGHS, MAA Yojana or CGHS, ask us which papers you need. We can tell you whether your scheme applies to this surgery. You can also ask us for an estimate if you are paying yourself.
