Nerve Conditions

Carpal Tunnel Release

A Carpal Tunnel release is a procedure to free the median nerve which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It involves making a small cut down the front of the wrist and palm of the hand and dividing the band of tissue which is pressing on the median nerve. Once the nerve is completely free, the skin is closed with stitches.

Ulnar Nerve Decompression at the Elbow

The Ulnar nerve is a nerve which supplies feeling and strength to a portion of the hand and forearm. It may become compressed or trapped as it passes past the elbow. Ulnar nerve decompression at the elbow is performed to free up the nerve. It involves a small cut around the elbow, to free up the compressed nerve.

Hemifacial Spasm

Hemifacial spasms are uncontrolled painless cramps distressing one side of the face. It involves frequent muscle contractions that usually start from the eye advancing down the face causing closure of one eye along with distortion of the mouth on only one side of the face. Hemifacial spasms may occur due to a tumor, injury to the facial nerve or compression of the facial nerve by a blood vessel. Treatment comprises Botox injection into the distressed facial muscles or decompression surgery to release the pressure on the facial nerve by placing a teflon sponge between the nerve and squeezing blood vessel.

Nerve Biopsy

The purpose for doing a Nerve Biopsy is to diagnose nerve disease. The surgeon will make a small cut over the nerve of interest. A small segment of the nerve will be cut and sent to pathology. The surgeon will then close the skin with sutures or staples.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a long-lasting painful condition that involves the trigeminal nerve, fifth cranial nerve that is responsible for sensations in the face and other structures of the head. Patients with trigeminal neuralgia may undergo extreme, abrupt burning or shock-like face pain. The pain may continue for a few seconds up to 2 minutes per episode.

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