5604 SW Lee Blvd • Suite 357 • Lawton, OK 73505 • 580-531-4600
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What to expect after Carpal Tunnel Release

Here are some guidelines for immediately after surgery:

  1. Lidocaine and Marcaine, local anesthetics, have been injected into your hand, for the surgery to take place. This will keep the incision and your hand numb for several hours.
  2. If you received intravenous sedation, you may feel drowsy for several hours. Do not drive for 24 hours!
  3. If the wrapping on your operated hand(s) feels too tight, loosen or remove it for your comfort. If you remove it, place a Band-Aid over the incision and keep it dry.
  4. Elevate the operated hand for 24-48 hours.
  5. Keep an ice pack on the palm and wrist for 24- 48 hours. Ice reduces pain and swelling.
  6. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin, or ibuprofen for pain. If pain is unrelieved, use the medication that has been prescribed. Ice will give the best relief.
  7. If you haven’t already done so, remove the bulky dressing after 24 hours, and replace with a Band-Aid.
  8. Keep the incision dry until the stitches are removed. Tape plastic over the incision when showering. Change the Band-Aid 2-3 times daily...SPECIALLY IF THE INCISION GETS WET.
  9. USE YOUR FINGERS IMMEDIATELY. Resume as many daily activities as comfort permits. If it feels okay, you can do it. Overuse, however, will cause pain.
  10. Call the office to make an appointment for suture removal or with problems: 580-531-4600. Sutures should be removed 7-10 days after surgery.

Click here for a printable version of these guidelines.