Carpal Tunnel and Cubital Tunnel Surgery in Hilo, HI
Numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hand can make it hard to grip, type, sleep, or work. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura diagnoses and treats carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome in Hilo, HI . When conservative care is not enough, nerve release surgery can relieve pressure on the affected nerve and help restore comfort and hand function.
Understanding Nerve Compression in the Arm and Hand
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. It often causes numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, especially at night. Over time, patients may notice weakness, clumsiness, or dropping objects.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, often called the funny bone nerve, is compressed or stretched at the inside of the elbow. It typically causes numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers, and it may worsen when the elbow is bent for long periods, such as while holding a phone or sleeping.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Early nerve compression often improves with conservative care, including:
- Night splinting or bracing to keep the wrist or elbow in a neutral position
- Activity and workstation modifications
- Avoiding prolonged elbow bending or pressure on the elbow
- Nerve gliding exercises
- A corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel symptoms
Carpal and Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery
If symptoms persist, worsen, or cause muscle weakness, surgery may be recommended to prevent permanent nerve damage. Carpal tunnel release divides the ligament forming the roof of the carpal tunnel to create more room for the median nerve. Cubital tunnel surgery relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow and, in some cases, moves the nerve to a better position. These procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis through Hilo Community Surgical Center or Hilo Medical Center.
Recovery
Many patients notice relief of nighttime symptoms soon after surgery. Light hand use is often encouraged early, while grip strength continues to improve over several weeks to months. Dr. Matsuura also treats other hand and wrist conditions, including trigger finger, ganglion cysts, and tendon injuries.
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Carpal and Cubital Tunnel FAQs
What is the difference between carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve at the wrist and causes symptoms in the thumb and first fingers. Cubital tunnel syndrome affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow and causes symptoms in the ring and small fingers.
Why are my symptoms worse at night?
Many people sleep with their wrists or elbows bent, which increases pressure on the nerve. A night splint can help keep the joint in a neutral position.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome go away without surgery?
Mild cases often improve with splinting, activity changes, and injections. More severe or long-lasting cases may require surgery.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery is usually recommended when symptoms persist despite conservative care, or when there is muscle weakness or signs of nerve damage.
Is carpal tunnel surgery an outpatient procedure?
Yes. Carpal tunnel release is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and patients go home the same day.
How long does it take to recover from carpal tunnel surgery?
Many patients return to light activities within a few weeks, while grip strength may continue to improve for several months.
Can both hands be treated?
Yes. Dr. Matsuura will discuss whether treating one hand at a time or both is best for you.