Off to see the surgeon... - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

Tranzwarp · 07-09-2004, 01:16 PM

I recently had an EMG/NCS and received a call from my primary doctor's office the next day. They have already scheduled me with an Orthopaedic Surgeon, and stated that I have median nerve neuropathy (as seen with carpal tunnel). I've had pain for years in this hand (naturally, my dominant hand), and it becomes nearly incapacitating on a keybaord after 4-5 minutes.

July 22 I see the surgeon, and to be honest, I am hoping to just do the surgery and be done with it. I'm also a trumpet player and play in a British-style brass band. Over the past few years, I have noticed a drop in dexterity with this hand (this is the one I use) while playing. I don't have any interest in cortisone shots, and know that therapy isn't going to do anything good at this point. Has anyone had CTS surgery with the scope?

Thanks,

Bill

lidia09 · 07-10-2004, 06:01 AM

Hi Bill
I've had CTS surgery, but not the endoscopic type. Mine was the open version but the scars, which are around 35mm long & practically invisible, made my life line longer

From reading other message boards, It seems the endoscopic surgery healing time is faster, however, lots of people say the results aren't as good. That seems mainly due to the fact that the surgeon isn't looking directly into your hand but at a screen. I guess there's lots more pros & cons but given the choice again I'd go for the open version.

Your CTS sounds quite severe so hopefully surgery will make a huge difference after all that pain you've had for years. I only suffered one year of it before having the surgery & I don't regret having it done at all. 8 years on & my hands work ok. I've now got Cubital Tunnel Syndrome though

Hope all goes well for you.

Lidia

Tranzwarp · 07-12-2004, 11:32 AM

Thanks, Lidia, for the insight. Just haven't heard much about the endoscopic version. What you said does make sense.

Bill