The surgery is usually done under local anaesthesia, which numbs the wrist and hand while keeping you awake and comfortable.
Carpal Tunnel Release

Dr Jacqueline Tan
MBBS (SG) | MRCS (Edin) | MMed (Surgery) | FAMS (Hand Surgery)
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This pressure can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, often interfering with daily activities like gripping or typing.
For severe or persistent cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, carpal tunnel release surgery is often recommended as a treatment option to alleviate symptoms and improve hand function. However, outcomes may vary depending on the severity and duration of nerve compression.



Indications for Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with the following:
- Persistent Symptoms Despite Non-surgical Treatment: If numbness, tingling, or pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers does not improve with non-surgical treatments like wrist splints or anti-inflammatory medications, surgery may be recommended by your hand surgeon.
- Worsening Nighttime Symptoms: Worsening symptoms at night that disrupt sleep are a common sign that surgical intervention may be needed to alleviate nerve pressure.
- Loss of Hand Function: Weakness in grip strength, difficulty performing fine motor tasks, or muscle wasting in the base of the thumb may indicate severe nerve compression that requires surgical treatment.
Preparing for Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Proper preparation is key to a smooth surgery and recovery process.
Pre-Surgical Assessment
Your orthopaedic hand surgeon will conduct a physical examination and may recommend nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of nerve damage.
Pre-Operative Instructions
- Fasting: If general anaesthesia is planned (rare), fasting for several hours prior to surgery may be required.
- Medication Adjustments: Some medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be temporarily paused.
- Lifestyle Changes: Smoking cessation is advised to improve healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgical Procedure
Carpal tunnel release surgery is a straightforward outpatient procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve and improve hand function. It is typically performed under local or regional anaesthesia and lasts about 15–30 minutes.
Administering Anaesthesia
Opening the Carpal Tunnel
A small incision, typically 2–3 cm long, is made in the palm or wrist to access the carpal tunnel.
Releasing the Ligament
The transverse carpal ligament is carefully cut to relieve pressure on the median nerve. This creates more space within the tunnel, reducing symptoms.
Closing the Incision
The incision is closed with stitches, and a dressing is applied to protect the area. Most patients can return home the same day.
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Post-Surgical Care and Recovery
Recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery is usually quick and effective, with most patients experiencing significant symptom relief.
Immediate Post-Operative Care
Pain is typically mild after surgery and can be managed with over-the-counter medications. Keeping the hand elevated in the first few days helps minimise swelling and promotes better blood flow to the area. The surgical dressing should remain clean and dry, and patients are advised to avoid soaking the hand in water, such as during baths or swimming, until the incision has healed.
Rehabilitation
Gentle hand exercises may be recommended a few days after surgery to restore mobility and strength. Most patients can resume light activities, such as writing or using utensils, within 1–2 weeks. However, heavy lifting or repetitive hand movements should be avoided during this time to prevent strain on the healing tissues.
Full recovery and return to normal function are expected within 4–6 weeks for most individuals.
In some cases, particularly if symptoms were severe or long-standing before surgery, recovery might take longer, and additional care or therapy may be necessary. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon are important to monitor healing, address any concerns, and remove stitches if needed.
Signs of complications, such as redness, warmth, or discharge from the incision, should be promptly reported to your surgeon to ensure timely intervention.
Risks and Complications
While carpal tunnel release surgery is considered safe, there are some potential risks:
- Infection: Rare and easily treated with antibiotics.
- Stiffness or Swelling: Temporary and often resolves with time.
- Scar Sensitivity: Mild sensitivity at the incision site may persist for a few weeks.
Your hand surgeon will discuss these risks with you and provide guidance on minimising complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
In most cases, light exercises are sufficient. Your surgeon may recommend physical therapy if stiffness persists, if hand function is slow to return, or if additional support is needed to improve fine motor skills.
Is carpal tunnel release surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Post-surgical discomfort is usually mild and temporary.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome return after surgery?
Recurrence is uncommon but possible. Regular follow-ups with your hand surgeon can help monitor your recovery and address any concerns early.

Dr Jacqueline Tan
MBBS (SG)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Surgery)
FAMS (Hand Surgery)
Dr. Jacqueline Tan is a hand surgeon in Singapore with over 18 years of experience in managing hand, wrist, and nerve conditions. Formerly the Head of Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery at Singapore General Hospital, she has continued to contribute significantly to her profession.
- Director of Micro-Reconstruction Service and the Director of Peripheral Nerve and Paralytic Upper Limb Service
- Upon the completion of her training as a hand surgeon in Singapore, Dr Tan was awarded the prestigious Health Manpower Development Plan scholarship by the Ministry of Health (MOH).
- Completed a one-year advanced fellowship in Taiwan under the tutelage of internationally-acclaimed Hand and Orthopedic Microsurgeon – Professor Yuan-Kun Tu
- Dr Tan’s field of expertise is in early and late brachial plexus reconstruction, peripheral nerve disorders, reconstructive microsurgery of the extremities and wrist disorders.
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