Nerve Decompression in Sydney

Dr Jai Sungaran believes in using the most conservative means possible to treat a hand or wrist injury or disability. Often his patients respond very well to lifestyle changes, splint therapy and corticosteroids, and they experience relief from pain and reclaim normal function.

However, under certain circumstances, non-surgical treatments do not provide the desired outcomes, or pain and symptoms may be so severe that surgery is an appropriate option. For example, if one of the primary nerves found inside the hand becomes severely compressed, nerve decompression may be needed to release the nerves and ease the painful and debilitating problem.

The vast majority of patients who undergo nerve decompression in Sydney see outstanding results and can reclaim a good quality of life.

When Is Nerve Decompression Needed?

There are three primary nerves found inside the hand. The median nerve supplies sensation in most of the fingers and palm, allows the wrist and fingers to bend and pronates the forearm. A compression of the median nerve as it crosses the wrist is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. The radial nerve allows the hand to raise and the fingers to extend. The ulnar nerve provides sensation in several fingers and allows the wrist, fingers and thumb to flex. A compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the wrist or elbow is known as cubital tunnel syndrome.

The space around one of these nerves can become restricted for a number of reasons:

• traumatic injury
• overuse – i.e., repetitive finger, hand or wrist movements
• nerve-damaging illnesses – e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure

The restricted space and increased pressure on the nerve disturbs the way the nerves work and causes symptoms such as swelling, redness, numbness, tingling or pain in the affected area. Severely compressed nerves make it challenging to perform simple tasks, such as lifting or grasping certain objects.

Nerve decompression is a direct way to ease pressure on the affected nerve. This alleviates pain and discomfort and restores full or near to full function.

Treatment Details

During surgery, Dr Sungaran creates several small incisions in and around the affected portion of the nerve. The type of incision depends on the specific nerves that are entrapped. Dr Sungaran removes any structures including damaged tissues, bone spurs or adhesions that are trapping or compressing the nerve. This releases the nerve.

Recovering from nerve decompression varies from patient to patient. It may take up to four to six weeks to return to normal activities. Depending on the case, physical therapy may be needed after surgery to rehabilitate the affected fingers, wrist and hand and prevent problems from occurring in the future.

Learn More About Nerve Decompression in Sydney

If you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms consistent with a compressed nerve, Dr Sungaran encourages you to consult with him. He will perform a comprehensive evaluation, provide a definitive diagnosis and determine whether you are a candidate for nerve decompression surgery. Dr Sungaran will review the surgery in detail with you, going over the benefits and potential risks, so you have the information you need to make empowered decisions about your care.

To request a consultation with Dr Sungaran, please contact Southern Hand and Wrist today.