Carpal tunnel is a condition that occurs in the wrist. It is caused by compression of the median nerve at this level. Symptoms are represented by tingling and numbness in the palm and fingers 1, 2 and 3, especially at night. (see Drawing 1)
The causes are unknown. It was observed that intense use of the computer (mouse) can cause this condition. Occurs more frequently in pregnant women and those entering menopause.
The therapeutic solution is injections of cortisone products to alleviate the symptoms. If the patient does not respond to the treatment, than surgical relief of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel is the other solution.
The hand will be immobilized in a cast splint for several days until the wound heals. The outstanding scar is located on the volar face of the hand and will have a trajectory in the longitudinal axis of the hand and forearm, about 7-12 cm long.
Anatomical explanation ( see figure 2 )
The carpal tunnel is a delimited osteofibroase structure and contains most of the finger tendons and the median nerve. Any inflammation that occurs in the constituent structures can cause compression. This explains the compression of the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Results depend largely on the type of injury, its severity and the time since its appearance.