During ulnar nerve surgery, the patient is typically awake but under local anesthesia. Ulnar nerve surgery is a common procedure to treat nerve compression or damage in the ulnar nerve, which runs from the neck down the arm and into the hand. The surgery involves making an incision near the elbow or wrist to access the nerve and release any compression or repair any damage. Throughout the procedure, the patient may be asked to move their fingers or hand to help the surgeon locate the affected area. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area where the surgery is taking place, so the patient does not feel pain during the procedure. However, the patient may feel some pressure, tugging, or pulling sensations. Being awake during ulnar nerve surgery allows the patient to provide feedback to the surgeon and helps ensure the surgery is successful. After the surgery is complete, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort, but this can typically be managed with medication. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore full function to the hand and arm.
What not to do after ulnar nerve surgery?
Allow your arm to heal. Don’t push, pull, or lift anything heavy until your doctor says it’s okay to do so. This will depend on the type of surgery you had. You may drive when you are fully able to use your arm.
How painful is ulnar nerve surgery?
Depending on the type of surgery, your doctor might have cut the tissue that was pressing on the nerve. Or your doctor might have moved the nerve or shaved off some of the bone on the inner side of the elbow. Your arm will hurt and may feel weak with some numbness. Pain usually goes away in a few days.
Can I drive after ulnar nerve surgery?
You can drive once you are fully weight-bearing and no longer taking narcotics. Keep your splint on and dry until your first post-operative appointment, appoximately two weeks following your procedure.
How long will I be off work after ulnar nerve surgery?
After surgery, people who work at a job requiring physical activity should use the affected arm or elbow only for occasional work during the first few weeks after the procedure. People who work in an office can typically return to work a day or two after surgery.
What is nerve decompression surgery?
Nerve decompression is any operation that relieves pressure on a nerve, including a nerve release. Here is the surgical technique to decompress the peroneal nerve near the knee: The peroneal nerve can become entrapped at two points. The first entrapment point is at its entrance to the peroneal muscle fascia.
What is the recovery time for nerve root decompression surgery?
Recovering from lumbar decompression surgery You may be able to return to work after about 4 to 6 weeks, although you may need more time off if your job involves driving for long periods or lifting heavy objects.
What is the recovery time for ulnar nerve decompression surgery?
Recovery times will vary from person to person, from weeks to months depending on your age, health and the extent of the problem. Symptoms may improve quickly but in some cases they can take up to six months to go away fully. In some severe cases, some symptoms may persist after surgery.
How long does it take to recover from pinched nerve surgery?
Most patients are fully recovered about 4 to 6 weeks after minimally invasive spine surgery for a pinched nerve. Remember that everyone heals differently. Be sure to speak with your neurosurgeon so you know what to expect with your specific recovery.Mar 1, 2016
What to expect after nerve decompression surgery?
Your arm will hurt and may feel weak with some numbness. Pain usually goes away in a few days. But weakness and numbness may last a few months. Your doctor may remove the large bandage or may tell you when and how to remove it yourself.
