Carpal tunnel surgery in London

What nerve compression treatment involves

Treatment usually follows a step-by-step approach:

• Non-surgical treatment: a wrist or elbow splint, hand therapy, and steroid injections, with or without ultrasound guidance.

• Carpal tunnel release: the ligament pressing on the median nerve at the wrist is divided through a small cut in the palm (open release).

• Cubital tunnel release: the ulnar nerve is released at the elbow. Moving the nerve forward is rarely needed, mainly where the area is heavily scarred after an injury.

• Wartenberg’s syndrome release: the superficial radial nerve is freed in the forearm. Non-surgical treatment is tried first, but most cases need surgical release.

A nerve conduction study is always carried out before surgery. Each operation usually takes 30–60 minutes under regional or local anaesthetic, or general anaesthetic if you prefer, and is carried out as a day case.

Is it right for you?

Surgery may be considered if you have numbness, tingling, pain or weakness that has not settled with splints, therapy or injections, or if the nerve test shows significant compression. Carpal tunnel affects the thumb, index and middle fingers. Cubital tunnel affects the ring and little fingers. Wartenberg’s syndrome affects the back of the thumb and hand. It is important to have realistic expectations and to make the decision for yourself.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, infection and wound problems

• tenderness of the scar or palm, and stiffness

• incomplete relief of symptoms, especially when the nerve has been compressed for a long time

• injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels

• rarely, complex regional pain syndrome (prolonged pain and swelling) or return of symptoms

A bulky dressing stays on for 24–72 hours, then a smaller wound dressing. Stitches are removed after 14 days. Most people return to desk work after 1–2 weeks. If hand therapy would help your recovery, Mr Oezdogan will arrange a referral.

You should not drive until the wound has healed and you have full strength and control of your hand, as driving too early can put you and others at risk. It is also worth checking with your car insurer.

Surgery aims to relieve pressure on the nerve and improve symptoms, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and hand surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a nerve conduction study?

Yes. It confirms the diagnosis and shows how much the nerve is affected, which helps decide whether surgery is needed.

Is it covered by insurance?

Usually, subject to your policy. Self-pay is also available.

Can carpal tunnel get better without surgery?

Mild cases often improve with a splint, therapy or a steroid injection. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist or the nerve test shows significant compression.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

Will both hands be done together?

This is usually done one at a time, so you can keep using one hand. Mr Oezdogan will discuss what suits you.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

To discuss carpal tunnel or nerve compression surgery, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options