Peripheral nerve surgery

The peripheral nerves of the hand are essential for movement and sensation. When they are compressed or injured, this can cause tingling, numbness, nighttime pain, or loss of strength in the fingers, affecting daily life. Specialized peripheral nerve surgery aims to relieve compressed nerves or repair injuries to restore function and reduce pain.

Treatment Options – Hand and Wrist Conditions

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression of the median nerve at the wrist. It presents with tingling, numbness, and sometimes loss of strength in the hand.

Surgical treatment involves releasing the nerve to relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

The ulnar nerve can be compressed at the elbow or wrist, causing pain, numbness, and difficulty moving certain fingers. Surgery aims to free the nerve to restore mobility and strength in the affected fingers.

Nerve release or repair can be performed using different techniques:

Open surgery: an incision is made to directly access the nerve.
Endoscopic surgery: a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera.
Ultrasound-guided surgery: a technique guided by ultrasound for precise, minimal access.

Each technique is chosen depending on the location and severity of the compression or injury.

In the case of a traumatic nerve cut, microsurgical repair is required:

Direct suture if the nerve ends are close together.
Nerve graft if a portion of the nerve is missing.

These procedures aim to restore nerve continuity and allow optimal functional recovery.

Recovery after peripheral nerve surgery is gradual and may take several months. Specialized follow-up care and appropriate rehabilitation are essential to:

Restore sensation and movement in the fingers.
Reduce residual pain.
Optimize overall hand function.