Nerve Compression Surgery

Nerve compression surgery is a surgical intervention performed to relieve complaints such as pain, numbness and loss of strength due to nerve compression. Usually seen in the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome) or spine areas such as neck and waist, nerve compression can seriously reduce quality of life. Nerve compression surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail to produce a response.

Causes and Symptoms of Nerve Compression

Nerve compression can be caused by trauma, repetitive movements, poor posture, bone spurs, inflammatory rheumatic diseases or some systemic diseases. The most common symptoms are:

• Numbness and tingling
• Loss of strength
• Muscle wasting
• Severe pain
• Decreased reflexes

These symptoms negatively affect the person’s life and complaints of night pain are especially common.

When is surgery necessary?

Surgery is recommended if the patient’s complaints do not improve despite conservative methods such as physical therapy, medication, nerve blocking injections and rest, if the nerve compression has progressed or muscle loss has started. Early intervention is important in preventing permanent nerve damage.

How is nerve compression surgery performed?

The type of surgery depends on the location of the pinched nerve. One of the most common ones is carpal tunnel surgery. During this operation, the roof of the tunnel in the wrist area is cut and the nerve is relieved. While some surgeries are performed with open surgery, others can be performed more minimally invasively with endoscopic methods.

The operation is usually performed under local anesthesia and the hospital stay is quite short. The patient can often be discharged on the same day.

Recovery Process and Things to Consider

The recovery period after surgery may vary from person to person. While light work can usually be started within a few weeks, full recovery may take several months. In this process, physical therapy exercises recommended by the doctor are very important. The use of a wrist splint also helps to protect the nerve.

The main points to be considered after surgery:

• Hygienic care should be given to the wound
• Heavy lifting should be avoided
• Physical therapy should not be interrupted
• Doctor controls should not be neglected