Tingling fingers, waking up at night with numb hands, or struggling to open jars—carpal tunnel symptoms can interrupt everything from work tasks to basic self-care. When splints, therapy, or medications no longer help, surgery may be the next step. 

At Ocean Surgery Center, patients in Torrance have access to both open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release in a safe, outpatient setting that prioritizes comfort, precision, and recovery.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and When Is Surgery Recommended?

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passage in the wrist, becomes compressed. That pressure causes pain, tingling, numbness, and hand weakness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

Surgery is typically recommended when:

  • Symptoms persist beyond 6-12 months, even with bracing or therapy
  • Nerve conduction studies confirm moderate to severe compression
  • Daily tasks like typing, gripping, or sleeping are consistently disrupted

A timely surgical release can prevent long-term nerve damage and restore proper hand function.

What’s the Difference Between Open and Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release?

Both open and endoscopic techniques are designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament. The main differences lie in how the ligament is accessed and the tools used during surgery. These differences can influence recovery time, scarring, and surgical visibility.

Open Carpal Tunnel Release

In an open release, the surgeon makes a small incision at the base of the palm to directly view and divide the ligament. This approach enables the complete visualization of anatomical structures and is often employed when precision is crucial.

Patients undergoing open release can expect:

  • Direct surgical exposure, which can be helpful in complex or recurrent cases
  • A slightly larger incision, which may result in a more extended healing period compared to endoscopic techniques
  • A long-standing track record of safety and effectiveness, primarily when performed in a controlled outpatient setting like Ocean Surgery Center

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release

Endoscopic surgery takes a less invasive route. Instead of opening the palm, the surgeon inserts a small camera (endoscope) through one or two tiny incisions in the wrist or palm to guide the release of the ligament internally.

This technique may be a good option for patients who:

  • Prefer smaller incisions and potentially quicker recovery of grip strength
  • Have not had previous wrist surgery that could alter normal anatomy
  • Are good candidates for a minimally invasive approach, which requires specific surgical skill and equipment

What Type of Anesthesia Is Used for Carpal Tunnel Surgery in an ASC?

At Ocean Surgery Center, carpal tunnel release is typically performed under local anesthesia with light sedation or a regional nerve block that numbs the arm. These techniques allow patients to avoid general anesthesia while remaining comfortable during the procedure.

Benefits of undergoing surgery in our accredited ambulatory surgery center include:

  • Shorter check-in and discharge times
  • Lower infection risk compared to hospital settings
  • A dedicated, consistent care team

On the day of your surgery, you’ll check in, review consent forms, receive anesthesia, and undergo a brief recovery before heading home.

How Long Is Recovery and When Can You Return to Work?

Recovery is generally straightforward, but timelines can vary based on surgical approach and job demands:

  • First one to two weeks: Expect swelling, soreness, and limited use. If you had open surgery, your sutures may be removed at a follow-up visit.
  • Two to four weeks: Light use of the hand typically resumes.
  • Four to six weeks: Most patients can return to desk jobs or light office work.
  • Up to three months: Full grip strength and fine motor function return gradually.

For patients in manual labor, lifting, or repetitive hand use, recovery may take six weeks or longer. Ongoing physical therapy or hand exercises may be recommended to help manage symptoms.

It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s aftercare plan and attend follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress.

What Are the Risks and How Does Ocean Surgery Center Minimize Them?

Carpal tunnel release is a safe and routine procedure, but like any surgery, it carries potential risks. The most common side effects include temporary swelling, hand stiffness, or sensitivity around the incision site. 

These symptoms typically resolve during the healing process. Less commonly, patients may experience infection, nerve irritation, or incomplete relief from symptoms.

At Ocean Surgery Center, risk is minimized through every phase of care. Each procedure is performed by board-certified surgeons and anesthesiologists who bring years of specialized training. 

Our surgical teams adhere to strict infection control protocols and utilize modern instruments to minimize tissue trauma and enhance precision. Patients also receive clear, step-by-step instructions and recovery plans tailored to their specific needs, assuring comfort and consistency throughout the entire process.

Why Choose Ocean Surgery Center for Carpal Tunnel Release?

Your choice of surgical facility can significantly impact your experience and recovery. Ocean Surgery Center in Torrance offers a modern, accredited ambulatory surgery center equipped with advanced technology, designed for efficient and patient-centered care. Rather than being routed through an extensive hospital system, patients receive focused attention in a setting built for comfort and safety.

The care team comprises orthopedic specialists, anesthesiologists, and experienced nurses who work closely together to plan each procedure. From pre-op preparation to post-op follow-up, every step is designed around your health goals, functional needs, and timeline for returning to daily life. Pricing is transparent, and scheduling is streamlined to minimize delays and increase accessibility to care.

Explore Your Surgical Options in Torrance

If wrist pain, tingling, or hand weakness limits your daily life, it may be time to consider carpal tunnel release. Schedule a consultation with the surgical team at Ocean Surgery Center in Torrance to determine whether open or endoscopic surgery is the best option for you.