Endoscopic Carpal & Cubital Tunnel Release

What to Expect After Surgery

Swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness in the hand, wrist, and elbow are normal.
Tingling, numbness, or altered sensation may occur and should gradually improve as the nerves heal.

You will have two incisions:
- One at the wrist for your carpal tunnel release.
- One at the elbow for your cubital tunnel release.
If you were not placed into a splint, you may remove your wrist and elbow dressings the night of surgery.
If you were placed into a splint, please remove the splint 2 days.
You may shower after removing the dressings/splint, letting water run over the Gently pat dry afterward. Do not soak the incisions.
You may cover the wounds with Band-Aids or light dressings if desired.

In some cases, during cubital tunnel release we may need to perform an anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve.
If this is done, you will be placed in a long arm splint.
The splint should remain in place for 2-3 days, then it may be removed.
After splint removal, you may resume activities as tolerated, letting pain be your guide.

Begin using your hand, wrist, and elbow as tolerated once the splint (if placed) is removed.
Light activities are encouraged right Gradually increase heavier use as your comfort improves.

Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
Elevate your hand and apply ice packs (15–20 minutes at a time) to help with swelling and discomfort.