Carpal tunnel surgery in Wrocław
Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand, often at night. Surgery releases the ligament over the carpal tunnel and frees the nerve; it takes about 20-30 minutes, usually under local or regional anaesthetic. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by orthopaedic surgeon Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand, often at night. Surgery releases the ligament over the carpal tunnel and frees the nerve; it takes about 20-30 minutes, usually under local or regional anaesthetic. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by orthopaedic surgeon Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
What does the procedure involve?
Carpal tunnel syndrome surgery releases the pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, responsible for numbness, pain and weakness of the hand. The surgeon cuts the transverse carpal ligament, decompressing the nerve. It is an effective procedure that removes the complaints and prevents permanent nerve damage.
The most common indications for the procedure:
Preparation for the procedure:
Orthopaedic consultation and an EMG examination confirming the nerve compression
Laboratory tests
If necessary - an anaesthesiological consultation
Stopping anticoagulant medications min. 7 days before (as agreed with the doctor)
Course of the procedure
The procedure is performed under local or regional anaesthesia (less often general) and takes about 20-30 minutes.
The orthopaedist makes a small incision in the wrist and then cuts the flexor retinaculum - the structure compressing the median nerve.
After thorough decompression of the nerve, skin sutures are applied.
Recovery and post-procedure recommendations:
The hand should be spared for a few days - rest and elevation of the limb are recommended
The sutures are removed after about 10-14 days
Gentle finger movements are recommended from the first day after surgery
Return to light activities - after 7-10 days
Physical work and full fitness - usually after 4-6 weeks
The scar requires care - silicone preparations and gentle massage can be used
In the case of persistent symptoms - neuromuscular physiotherapy is recommended
Haematoma or bleeding requiring drainage
Infection requiring antibiotic therapy
Temporary or rarely permanent sensory disturbances in the hand area
Hypertrophic or discoloured scars
Asymmetry requiring correction
Longer-lasting swelling or bruising
An unsatisfactory result requiring possible re-operation
Frequently asked questions
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
It is compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, manifested by numbness and tingling of the thumb and the index and middle fingers, night pain and weakened grip.
What does carpal tunnel surgery involve?
Through a small incision the surgeon cuts the flexor retinaculum, widening the carpal tunnel and releasing the compressed nerve. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes under local anaesthesia.
When is carpal tunnel surgery necessary?
When numbness wakes you at night, symptoms persist despite orthoses, physiotherapy and blocks, weakening of the grip or atrophy of the thenar muscles appears. Delay risks permanent nerve damage.
Does carpal tunnel surgery hurt?
No - it is performed under local anaesthesia. After the procedure, tenderness of the scar and the area is moderate and subsides within a few weeks.
How quickly will the numbness subside after surgery?
Night pain and numbness usually subside within the first days after the procedure. Sensation and strength improve gradually; with long-standing compression, nerve regeneration can take months.
When can I use my hand after the procedure?
You exercise the fingers from the first day and can do light activities right away. Full loading of the wrist, lifting and leaning on it are introduced after 4-6 weeks.
When will I return to work after carpal tunnel surgery?
Office work is usually possible after 1-2 weeks, physical work after 4-6 weeks. The timings depend on the profession and whether the dominant hand is operated on.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome recur after surgery?
Recurrences are rare (a few percent). More often, persistent symptoms are due to advanced nerve damage from before the operation - which is why it is not worth delaying treatment.
How to prepare for the procedure?
Bring the EMG result and documentation, report blood-thinning medications. You do not need to fast; plan your return home without driving.
Is an EMG examination needed before surgery?
Yes - a nerve conduction study confirms the diagnosis, assesses the degree of nerve damage and makes it possible to rule out other causes of the symptoms, e.g. compression at the neck level.
What are the possible complications of the surgery?
Rare: infection, scar tenderness, temporary weakening of the grip, very rarely irritation of the nerve branches. Proper technique and rehabilitation minimise the risk.
How much does carpal tunnel syndrome surgery cost in Wrocław?
Carpal tunnel surgery starts at PLN 3,500 in our price list.
Is it covered by the NFZ (Polish public health insurance)?
Luna Clinic treats patients privately. Carpal tunnel surgery is also funded by the NFZ in orthopaedic or hand surgery departments, after a referral and waiting list.
Indications - is this procedure for you?
The most common reasons patients come for the “Carpal tunnel syndrome surgery” procedure:
- Pain limiting daily activity, work or sleep.
- Mobility limitation, instability or “catching” in the joint.
- Insufficient improvement after conservative treatment and rehabilitation.
Contraindications
Effects - when and for how long?
Effect: relief often as early as the first days; sensation returns gradually. Durability: lasting with adherence to recommendations.
Safety and possible complications
As with any operation, the following are possible - though rare: haematoma, infection, sensory disturbances in the operated area, scar hypertrophy or the need for another procedure.
We minimise the risk at every stage: a sterile procedure suite, an experienced anaesthesiology team, careful qualification and post-operative monitoring. You have the right to know every aspect of the procedure - at the consultation we will discuss them honestly and without haste.
Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD
A specialist in orthopaedics and traumatology of the locomotor system with over 13 years of experience in trauma and orthopaedic surgery. A doctor of medical sciences, a graduate of the Wrocław Medical Academy; he also gained practice in hospitals in the United Kingdom, combining modern treatment techniques with an individual approach to the patient.
Take the first step
Book a consultation - an honest conversation about expectations, possibilities and the treatment plan.
Carpal tunnel surgery: price and consultation
Carpal tunnel surgery costs from PLN 3,500 at Luna Clinic. The price includes the procedure, materials and follow-up. A nerve conduction test (EMG) is usually needed beforehand - the doctor will discuss this at the consultation.
How to book
Call +48 666 850 666 (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00) or send the consultation form. All prices: Luna Clinic price list.
Where we are
Consultation and surgery: Luna Clinic, ul. Władysława Syrokomli 46, 51-141 Wrocław, Poland - in the Karłowice area of the Psie Pole district. There is parking for patients by the clinic. Directions and map