“These are the times that try men's souls.” | I've had both my wrist done, one about three years ago other one done last year at this time. I watched both done on the big screen in operating room. I just had nerve blocker done on arm. They put a tourniquet on upper arm, then force/work remaining blood from arm. Make small incision, they stick probe both ways in the tunnel, they extend a little blade and pull back opening it to release pressure. You will feel pressure as they do it, but no pain. Then you will have to wear brace on that hand for 3 or more weeks if I recall. Doc told me I could do work as long as it didn't hurt and I kept brace on.
Some helpful hints are buy a extra brace if you are going to try and do some work as you will get them dirty. Also get some cow OB sleeve gloves put one of those on when you want to shower. Take a big rubber band and put over sleeve to keep water out. I would put rubber band up past my elbow, then roll remaining part of sleeve down so it didn't hold water.
Also one other helpful hint for surgery's is to use the kitchen product Glad wrap Press n Seal to cover areas like you shoulder you need to keep dry after surgery. Put a piece of it over wound dressing, then you can take a hair dryer lightly hit it with heat so it sucks press n seal to skin. Just like putting shrink wrap on something. Sure makes it easier to shower after a operation.
The total operation didn't take ten minutes, it takes more time to prep you before and after operation. My doc was joking in operating room to not let me watch it, as I would want to try the farmer at home version after seeing what little work they do.
I was going to have both done at once glad I didn't. I would recommend one at a time, that way you are able to go to the bathroom alone and take care of yourself. I had have blood disorder, and doc no way wanted to both, in the event I had a problem with bleeding I would have been helpless for a while.
They will warn you that worst case is they have to cut your hand open more if they can't use scope, but I think that is pretty rare these days. That will take longer to heal. |
Carpal tunnel surgery.
