Carpal Tunnel Release

minimum cost
₱ 0
maximum cost
₱ 0

Things you need to know

1.What is ​Carpal Tunnel Release?
2.Why do you need it?
3.Why cost vary in philippines?
4.Surgery cost range by city
5.Surgery Procedure
6.Recovery
7.Risk and complications
8.FAQ
9.Conclusion

What is Carpal Tunnel Release ?

.

Why do you need Carpal Tunnel Release ?

CTR is indicated for:

  • Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
    • Persistent symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
    • Weakness: Difficulty gripping or dropping objects.
    • Night pain: Waking up with hand numbness.
  • Failed non-surgical treatment:
    • No relief from wrist splints, steroid injections, or anti-inflammatory drugs after 3–6 months.
  • Nerve damage risk:
    • Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies (NCS) showing severe median nerve impairment.
  • Associated conditions:
    • CTS due to repetitive motion, pregnancy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism.

The procedure aims to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, creating more space in the carpal tunnel and alleviating symptoms.

Why Do Carpal Tunnel Release Costs Vary in Philippines?

.

Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure

  • Before Surgery Evaluation:
    • Diagnosis:
      • Physical exam: Tinel’s sign (tapping over the nerve causes tingling), Phalen’s test (wrist flexion reproduces symptoms).
      • EMG/NCS: Confirms median nerve compression and severity.
      • Blood tests: Blood sugar (for diabetics), thyroid function (if hypothyroidism suspected).
    • Medications: Stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe.
    • Consent: Risks, including nerve injury, are explained.
  • Surgical Techniques:
    • Open Carpal Tunnel Release:
      • Performed under local anesthesia (sometimes with sedation), lasting 30–45 minutes.
      • A 2–3 cm incision is made in the palm/wrist.
      • The transverse carpal ligament is cut to release pressure on the median nerve.
      • The incision is closed with sutures.
    • Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release:
      • Performed under local anesthesia, lasting 15–30 minutes.
      • One or two small incisions (1 cm) are made in the wrist or palm.
      • An endoscope (camera) guides the surgeon to cut the ligament using a small blade.
      • Incisions are closed with sutures or Steri-Strips.
    • Intraoperative Tools:
      • Endoscope (for endoscopic CTR): Visualizes the ligament.
      • Scalpel or endoscopic blade: Cuts the ligament.
      • Local anesthetic: Numbs the area (e.g., lidocaine).
  • After Surgery:
    • Observation: 1–2 hours; same-day discharge.
    • Hand care: Keep incision dry; wear a wrist splint for 1–2 weeks to limit movement.
    • Pain management: Mild to moderate pain for 3–5 days; managed with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
    • Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive hand use for 4–6 weeks; elevate hand to reduce swelling.

Recovery After Carpal Tunnel Release

  1. Immediate Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild swelling and discomfort for 3–5 days.
  2. Post-Surgery Care:
    • Pain/Swelling: Peaks at 2–3 days; ice and elevation help; resolves in 1–2 weeks.
    • Hand use: Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive tasks for 4–6 weeks; light activities (e.g., writing) in 1–2 weeks.
    • Physiotherapy: Starts at 2–3 weeks; focuses on wrist mobility, grip strength, and desensitization; continues for 1–2 months.
    • Splint: Worn for 1–2 weeks (longer for endoscopic); protects incision and reduces strain.
    • Sutures: Removed at 10–14 days (open CTR); endoscopic may use dissolvable sutures.
    • Symptom relief: Numbness/tingling improves in 2–6 weeks; night pain often resolves immediately.
  3. Follow-Up:
    • Visits at 1 week (suture removal), 1 month, and 3 months to monitor healing and strength.
    • NCS (if needed): At 3 months to confirm nerve recovery.

Most resume normal activities in 4–6 weeks; full recovery (including heavy tasks) takes 2–3 months. Success rate: 85–90% achieve significant symptom relief; grip strength may take 6–12 months to fully return.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:
    • Infection (1–2%): Superficial or deep; treated with antibiotics, may need debridement.
    • Bleeding (1–2%): Hematoma in wrist; may need drainage.
    • Nerve injury (<1%): Median nerve damage causing persistent numbness or weakness; rare with experienced surgeons.
  • Post-Surgery:
    • Scar sensitivity (5–10%): Tenderness at incision site; improves in 3–6 months.
    • Pillar pain (5–10%): Pain at base of palm; usually resolves in 2–3 months.
    • Stiffness (2–5%): Limited wrist motion; managed with physiotherapy.
    • Recurrence (1–5%): Symptoms return due to incomplete release or scar tissue; may need revision surgery.
  • Long-Term:
    • Weakness (2–5%): Persistent grip weakness; may need prolonged rehab.
    • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS, <1%): Chronic pain and swelling; treated with pain management and therapy.

Report severe pain, swelling, fever, or worsening numbness promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Repetitive hand use, wrist injury, pregnancy, diabetes, arthritis, or hypothyroidism; more common in women.

Can I avoid CTR?

Yes, if mild: Wrist splints, steroid injections, or rest; surgery is for severe symptoms or nerve damage risk.

Is CTR painful?

No, performed under anesthesia; mild to moderate pain for 3–5 days, managed with medication.

How soon can I resume activities?

Light activities (e.g., writing) in 1–2 weeks; normal use in 4–6 weeks; heavy tasks in 2–3 months.

Is CTR covered by insurance in India?

Yes, for medical necessity; confirm with your provider.

Signs of complications?

Severe pain, swelling, fever, or worsening numbness.

Will my symptoms fully resolve?

85–90% achieve significant relief; severe cases with nerve damage may have residual numbness.

Lifestyle changes post-surgery?

Avoid repetitive hand strain, use ergonomic tools, follow physiotherapy, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Carpal Tunnel Release

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
Antipolo
Bacolod
Bacoor
Baguio
Butuan
Cagayan de Oro
Caloocan
Cebu City
Dasmariñas
Davao City
General Santos
General Trias
Iligan
Iloilo City
Las Piñas
Makati
Malolos
Manila
Muntinlupa
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Puerto Princesa
Quezon City
San Fernando
San Jose del Monte
Taguig
Valenzuela
Zamboanga City

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

What is Carpal Tunnel Release?

Carpal Tunnel Release (CTR) is a surgical procedure to treat carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition where the median nerve is compressed in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hand. The surgery involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the nerve. In the Philippines, CTR is performed in orthopedic or hand surgery departments at hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, and Philippine General Hospital (PGH), offering accessible and cost-effective care. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) is essential for Filipino patients to make informed decisions.

Why Do You Need Carpal Tunnel Release?

Carpal Tunnel Release is indicated for:

  • Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

    • Persistent Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or pain in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger (60–70% of cases report night pain waking them up).

    • Weakness: Difficulty gripping, dropping objects, or reduced hand dexterity (30–40% of cases).

  • Failed Non-Surgical Treatment: No relief after 3–6 months of conservative measures like wrist splints, steroid injections, or anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, 40–50% of cases).

  • Nerve Damage Risk: Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies (NCS) showing severe median nerve impairment (e.g., delayed nerve conduction, 20–30% of severe cases).

  • Associated Conditions:

    • CTS caused by repetitive hand use (e.g., typing, manual labor), pregnancy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism.

    • Common in women (3:1 ratio) and adults aged 30–60 years.

  • Prevalence in the Philippines: CTS affects ~3–6% of adults, with higher rates among office workers, manual laborers, and those with diabetes (10–15% prevalence in diabetics).

  • Timing: Recommended when symptoms significantly impact daily life or nerve damage is imminent; earlier in pregnancy-related CTS if severe.

The procedure aims to relieve median nerve compression by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, increasing space in the carpal tunnel, alleviating symptoms, and preventing permanent nerve damage

Why Do Carpal Tunnel Release Costs Vary in the Philippines?

Costs range from ₱50,000 to ₱150,000, influenced by:

  • Procedure Type:

    • Open CTR: ₱50,000–₱100,000 (more common, 60–70% of cases).

    • Endoscopic CTR: ₱80,000–₱150,000 (less invasive, faster recovery, but requires specialized equipment).

  • Hospital/Location: Higher costs in Metro Manila private hospitals (e.g., St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center: ₱80,000–₱150,000); lower in public hospitals like PGH (₱20,000–₱60,000, often subsidized by PhilHealth or PCSO medical assistance).

  • Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced orthopedic or hand surgeons charge higher fees.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Pre-op tests (e.g., EMG/NCS, blood tests): ₱5,000–₱15,000.

    • Anesthesia (local with or without sedation): ₱10,000–₱20,000.

    • Hospital charges (outpatient, same-day discharge): ₱5,000–₱15,000.

    • Post-op care (e.g., wrist splint, medications, physiotherapy): ₱10,000–₱30,000.

  • Insurance: PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱10,000–₱30,000) for medically necessary cases; private insurance typically covers CTR when supported by EMG/NCS evidence. PCSO assistance may reduce costs for indigent patients. Confirm with your provider.

Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:

  • Diagnosis:

    • Physical Exam: Tinel’s sign (tapping over the median nerve causes tingling, positive in 50–60% of cases); Phalen’s test (wrist flexion for 60 seconds reproduces symptoms, positive in 60–70%).

    • Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS): Confirms median nerve compression and severity (used in 30–40% of cases, especially severe or unclear diagnoses).

    • Blood Tests: Blood sugar (for diabetes, 10–15% of CTS cases), thyroid function (for hypothyroidism, 5–10%).

  • Preparation: Stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe; fasting 4–6 hours if sedation is used. Consent includes risks like nerve injury or recurrence.

  • Multidisciplinary Team: Involves orthopedic or hand surgeon, anesthesiologist, and physiotherapist (post-op).

Surgical Techniques:

  1. Open Carpal Tunnel Release:

    • Performed under local anesthesia (sometimes with sedation, 70–80% of cases), lasting 30–45 minutes.

    • Process:

      • A 2–3 cm incision is made in the palm or wrist.

      • The transverse carpal ligament is identified and cut to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

      • The incision is closed with sutures (absorbable or non-absorbable).

    • Tools: Scalpel, retractors, local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine).

  2. Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release:

    • Performed under local anesthesia with sedation, lasting 15–30 minutes.

    • Process:

      • One or two small incisions (1 cm) in the wrist or palm.

      • An endoscope (camera) is inserted to visualize the transverse carpal ligament, which is cut using a specialized blade.

      • Incisions are closed with sutures or Steri-Strips.

    • Tools: Endoscope, endoscopic blade, local anesthetic.

  3. Intraoperative Considerations:

    • Nerve protection: Median nerve carefully avoided during ligament release.

    • Bleeding control: Bipolar cautery to minimize hematoma risk.

After Surgery:

  • Observation: 1–2 hours in recovery; same-day discharge (90–95% of cases).

  • Care:

    • Wrist splint for 1–2 weeks to limit movement and protect incision.

    • Keep incision dry for 5–7 days; elevate hand to reduce swelling (first 48 hours).

    • Pain management with oral analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen) for 3–5 days.

  • Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting, repetitive hand use, or gripping for 4–6 weeks; start gentle finger movements within 2–3 days to prevent stiffness.

Recovery After Carpal Tunnel Release

  • Hospital Stay: Same-day discharge (outpatient).

  • Post-Surgery Care:

    • Pain/Swelling: Mild to moderate pain and swelling for 3–5 days; ice (20 min every 2 hours) and elevation reduce discomfort; resolves in 1–2 weeks.

    • Hand Use: Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive tasks for 4–6 weeks; light activities (e.g., writing, typing) resume in 1–2 weeks.

    • Physiotherapy: Starts at 2–3 weeks; focuses on wrist mobility, grip strength, and scar desensitization; continues for 1–2 months (₱500–₱1,000/session).

    • Splint: Worn for 1–2 weeks (shorter for endoscopic); protects incision and reduces strain.

    • Sutures: Removed at 10–14 days (open CTR); endoscopic may use dissolvable sutures or Steri-Strips.

    • Symptom Relief: Numbness/tingling improves in 2–6 weeks (80–90% report immediate night pain relief); severe cases with nerve damage may have slower recovery (3–6 months).

  • Follow-Up:

    • Visits at 1 week (incision check), 1 month, and 3 months to monitor healing and hand function.

    • EMG/NCS (if needed): At 3 months to confirm nerve recovery (10–20% of severe cases).

  • Recovery timeline: Most resume normal activities in 4–6 weeks; full recovery (including heavy tasks or sports) takes 2–3 months. Success rate: 85–90% achieve significant symptom relief; grip strength may take 6–12 months to fully return, especially in severe cases.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:

    • Infection (1–2%): Superficial (skin) or deep; treated with antibiotics, rarely requires debridement.

    • Bleeding (1–2%): Hematoma in wrist; may need drainage (<1%).

    • Nerve Injury (<1%): Median nerve or branch damage causing persistent numbness, weakness, or pain; rare with experienced surgeons.

  • Post-Surgery:

    • Scar Sensitivity (5–10%): Tenderness or discomfort at incision site; improves in 3–6 months with massage or desensitization therapy.

    • Pillar Pain (5–10%): Pain at base of palm (thenar/hypothenar muscles); usually resolves in 2–3 months.

    • Stiffness (2–5%): Limited wrist or finger motion; managed with physiotherapy.

    • Recurrence (1–5%): Symptoms return due to incomplete ligament release, scar tissue, or underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes); may need revision surgery (₱80,000–₱150,000).

  • Long-Term:

    • Weakness (2–5%): Persistent grip weakness, especially in severe pre-op nerve damage; prolonged rehab may help.

    • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS, <1%): Chronic pain, swelling, or sensitivity; treated with pain management and therapy.

  • Report severe pain, swelling, fever, worsening numbness, or hand weakness promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Repetitive hand use (e.g., typing, manual labor), wrist injury, pregnancy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism; more common in women (3:1 ratio).

Can I avoid carpal tunnel release?
Yes, for mild cases: Wrist splints, steroid injections, rest, or ergonomic changes can manage symptoms (40–50% of cases); surgery is needed for severe symptoms or nerve damage risk.

Is carpal tunnel release painful?
Performed under local anesthesia; mild to moderate post-op pain for 3–5 days, managed with medication; discomfort resolves in 1–2 weeks.

How soon can I resume activities?
Light activities (e.g., writing, typing): 1–2 weeks; normal use: 4–6 weeks; heavy tasks or sports: 2–3 months.

Is carpal tunnel release covered by insurance in the Philippines?
PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱10,000–₱30,000) for medically necessary cases; private insurance typically covers CTR with EMG/NCS evidence. PCSO assistance may apply. Confirm with your provider.

What are the signs of complications post-procedure?
Severe pain, swelling, fever, worsening numbness, or hand weakness require immediate medical attention.

Will my symptoms fully resolve?
85–90% achieve significant symptom relief (numbness, pain); severe cases with pre-existing nerve damage may have residual numbness or weakness (10–15%).

What lifestyle changes are needed post-surgery?
Avoid repetitive hand strain, use ergonomic tools (e.g., keyboards, mouse), wear wrist splints during repetitive tasks, follow physiotherapy, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

Carpal Tunnel Release is a safe and effective procedure to relieve carpal tunnel syndrome, with a high success rate (85–90% symptom relief) and relatively quick recovery. The Philippines’ top hospitals (St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center, PGH) provide quality care at costs ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱150,000, often partially covered by PhilHealth or private insurance for medically necessary cases. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and FAQs empowers patients to approach surgery confidently. For persistent hand numbness, tingling, or weakness, consult a board-certified orthopedic or hand surgeon for personalized guidance and optimal outcomes.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Carpal Tunnel Release

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
20,000
80,000
Antipolo
20,000
80,000
Bacolod
20,000
80,000
Bacoor
20,000
60,000
Baguio
20,000
80,000
Butuan
20,000
60,000
Cagayan de Oro
20,000
80,000
Caloocan
20,000
60,000
Cebu City
30,000
100,000
Dasmariñas
20,000
60,000
Davao City
30,000
100,000
General Santos
20,000
80,000
General Trias
20,000
60,000
Iligan
20,000
80,000
Iloilo City
20,000
80,000
Las Piñas
20,000
80,000
Makati
30,000
100,000
Malolos
20,000
60,000
Manila
30,000
100,000
Muntinlupa
20,000
80,000
Parañaque
20,000
80,000
Pasay
20,000
80,000
Pasig
30,000
100,000
Puerto Princesa
20,000
80,000
Quezon City
30,000
100,000
San Fernando
20,000
60,000
San Jose del Monte
20,000
60,000
Taguig
30,000
100,000
Valenzuela
20,000
60,000
Zamboanga City
20,000
80,000

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

Scroll to Top