Hand surgery

Specialist hand surgery

Carpal and cubital tunnel release

Relieving pressure on the median or ulnar nerve when compression causes persistent symptoms or weakness.

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A hand surgeon examining a patient's wrist and palm

What does treatment involve?

Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve at the wrist, while cubital tunnel syndrome affects the ulnar nerve around the elbow. Surgery creates more room for the affected nerve and may be considered when symptoms persist, nerve tests show significant compression or weakness develops.

01

When it may be considered

  • Persistent numbness, tingling or night symptoms despite appropriate non-surgical care
  • Weakness, loss of dexterity or muscle change attributable to nerve compression
  • Clinical and nerve-study findings that support decompression
02

Your treatment

  • Confirmation of the diagnosis and level of compression
  • Release of the tissue forming the roof of the relevant tunnel
  • For selected cubital tunnel cases, additional management of the nerve may be discussed
03

Recovery and rehabilitation

  • Light hand use is introduced according to comfort and wound healing
  • Long-standing numbness or weakness may improve slowly and may not recover fully
  • Scar care and hand therapy are advised when appropriate

Assessment before recommendation.

Symptoms, examination findings, work, hobbies and the demands placed on your hand are considered together. Relevant imaging or nerve studies are reviewed where required.

You will receive a clear explanation of the available options, likely benefits, limitations, material risks and expected rehabilitation before deciding how to proceed.

Useful information

01Do I always need nerve-conduction studies?+

Not in every case. They may be helpful when the diagnosis or severity is uncertain, symptoms are atypical or another site of nerve compression is possible.

02Will surgery stop the numbness immediately?+

Night symptoms may improve relatively quickly, but established numbness or weakness can take longer. Severe or longstanding nerve damage may not fully recover.

03Is cubital tunnel surgery performed at the wrist?+

No. Cubital tunnel syndrome involves the ulnar nerve at the elbow; carpal tunnel syndrome involves the median nerve at the wrist.

This information is general and does not replace an individual consultation. The most appropriate treatment and recovery plan depend on your diagnosis, examination findings and personal circumstances.

Begin with a conversation.

Discuss your symptoms and receive an individual assessment with clear, considered advice.

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