Can You Undergo Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Surgery? Key Considerations

Q: Can You Undergo Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Surgery? Key Considerations

Hello： Your question： <Can both hands be operated on at the same time?> My answer： Under health insurance, both hands can be operated on simultaneously. <br>However, you need to evaluate your work/rest schedule and your private insurance coverage. <br>Since you are only 25 years

Surgical Issues in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Doctor, I previously inquired about my carpal tunnel issue.
If I decide to undergo surgery (I am currently in rehabilitation), I have recently been experiencing pain extending from my wrist to my arm.
Today, I received an injection and continued with rehabilitation.
Is it possible to have surgery on both hands at the same time? Since this is an outpatient procedure, I had surgery on my right foot's fifth toe for hallux valgus at the beginning of January (which required hospitalization).
The doctor informed me before that surgery that under the new health insurance regulations, only one procedure can be performed at a time.
I'm unsure if this applies to outpatient surgeries as well, but I really want to have both hands operated on together (I plan to decide on the surgery after seeing the doctor, aiming for late June).
After that, I would like to schedule surgery for my left foot's fifth toe for hallux valgus in early July, and then take three months off for recovery.
Otherwise, it would be very troublesome to keep requesting leave, and I'm worried about job security.
I already took over a month off in January for recovery, and now I would need to request another three months in July.
😭

Ling Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/31

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Your question: My answer: Under health insurance, both hands can be operated on simultaneously.
However, you need to evaluate your work/rest schedule and your private insurance coverage.
Since you are only 25 years old, I still encourage you to consider conservative treatment first, unless your symptoms are truly unbearable and neurological examinations show significant abnormalities.
Best wishes // Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery.

Reply Date: 2022/03/31

More Info

When considering bilateral carpal tunnel surgery, there are several important factors to take into account, especially given your current symptoms and previous surgical history. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and arm. If you are experiencing pain that extends from your wrist to your arm, it may indicate that the condition is worsening and may require surgical intervention.

Key Considerations for Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Surgery
1. Medical Evaluation: Before proceeding with surgery, it is crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a qualified orthopedic or hand surgeon. They will assess the severity of your condition, the extent of nerve compression, and whether surgery is the best option for you. Given your history of foot surgery and ongoing rehabilitation, your overall health and recovery capacity will be taken into account.

2. Surgical Options: Carpal tunnel surgery can be performed using open surgery or endoscopic techniques. Both methods aim to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament. The choice between these methods may depend on the surgeon's expertise and your specific case.

3. Bilateral Surgery Feasibility: While it is technically possible to perform bilateral carpal tunnel surgery, many surgeons prefer to operate on one hand at a time. This approach allows for better recovery and rehabilitation, as using both hands post-surgery can be challenging. However, if your symptoms are severe and significantly impacting your daily life, you can discuss the possibility of simultaneous surgery with your surgeon. They will consider your pain levels, functional limitations, and overall health.

4. Recovery Time: Recovery from carpal tunnel surgery typically involves a period of immobilization followed by physical therapy. If both hands are operated on simultaneously, you may face greater challenges in performing daily activities, which could prolong your recovery time. It is essential to have a support system in place to assist you during this period.

5. Insurance and Regulations: As you mentioned, there may be regulations regarding the number of procedures covered by insurance at one time. In many cases, insurance policies may limit the number of surgeries performed in a single day or require separate authorizations for bilateral procedures. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider and discuss this with your surgeon's office to ensure that you understand the coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

6. Work Considerations: Given your concerns about taking time off work, it is important to communicate with your employer about your situation. If you plan to undergo surgery on both hands, you may need to take a more extended leave of absence. Discussing your needs with your employer can help you manage your workload and ensure that you have adequate time to recover.

7. Post-Operative Care: After surgery, follow your surgeon's instructions for care, including wound management, pain control, and rehabilitation exercises. Attending follow-up appointments is crucial to monitor your recovery and address any complications that may arise.

Conclusion
In summary, while bilateral carpal tunnel surgery is possible, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential challenges of recovery. A thorough discussion with your healthcare provider will help you make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances. If you decide to proceed with surgery, ensure that you have a solid plan for post-operative care and support, as this will significantly impact your recovery experience.

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