How Do You Know The Risks Of Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
If your doctor recommends carpal tunnel surgery to alleviate pain and restore the function of your hands, you will want to know the risks to help inform your decision. Carpal tunnel surgery is often regarded as the last resort to alleviate pain, numbness, weakness and loss of strength and coordination. Here is some information to help you make the best decision. Know that carpal tunnel surgery is effective only 50 percent of the time, on average. Statistics indicate that only half of the people that go under the knife experience complete relief of their symptoms. Be aware of the risk of infection. Any invasive surgery carries the risk of post-operative infection that can cause a wide range of other difficulties. Expect scarring and swelling. The scarring and swelling that ensues after surgery can lead to increased discomfort and loss of function. Understand that injury could occur to the median and surrounding nerves. Although rare, a severed or partially severed nerve can result in im