Hand & wrist · Nerve decompression

Carpal tunnel surgery in Canada

Carpal tunnel release is a minimally invasive procedure that releases the transverse carpal ligament to decompress the median nerve — addressing the numbness, tingling, and weakness caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Consultations with our fellowship-trained surgeons in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. The procedure is outpatient day surgery; most patients return to desk work within days and to full activities over 4–6 weeks.

At Pathway, our fellowship-trained hand and wrist surgeons perform carpal tunnel surgery. Consultations are available in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230
  • Outpatient day surgery
  • Desk work typically within days
  • Surgery in 2–4 weeks
  • No referral required
Hands typing comfortably on a laptop after wrist recovery
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Outpatient day surgery

At a glance

Carpal tunnel surgery at a glance

Carpal tunnel release is a minimally invasive procedure that releases the transverse carpal ligament to decompress the median nerve — addressing the numbness, tingling, and weakness caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.

1–3 days
to first consultation
2–4 weeks
from consult to surgery
Within days
most patients back to desk work
4–6 weeks
typical return to full activities
The condition

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and the transverse carpal ligament. This compression causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

Carpal tunnel release surgery divides the transverse carpal ligament to create more space for the nerve, aiming to reduce pressure and support nerve function recovery.

Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

The procedure

Open vs. endoscopic release.

A straightforward outpatient procedure, typically performed under local anesthesia.

Open release

A small incision is made in the palm to directly visualize and divide the transverse carpal ligament. This approach provides excellent access and has a long track record.

  • Direct visualization of structures
  • Well-established technique

Endoscopic release

A camera is inserted through one or two small incisions to guide the release. This may allow for a faster return to activity with less palm tenderness.

  • Smaller incisions
  • May reduce palm soreness

Both techniques achieve the same goal — your surgeon will recommend the best approach for your situation.

Your surgeon

Our carpal tunnel release specialist.

Our fellowship-trained surgeon with expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery.

Dr. Bashar Alolabi, carpal tunnel surgeon

Dr. Bashar Alolabi

Shoulder, elbow & hand specialist · Cleveland Clinic fellowship trained

Dr. Bashar Alolabi is a shoulder, elbow & hand specialist, fellowship trained at the Cleveland Clinic.

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Your recovery

Recovery after carpal tunnel release.

  1. 1

    Day of surgery

    Home same day

    Go home the same day; keep the hand elevated

  2. 2

    Weeks 1–2

    Protect the incision

    Keep the dressing clean and dry; gentle finger movements

  3. 3

    Weeks 2–4

    Sutures removed

    Gradual return to light activities

  4. 4

    Weeks 6–8

    Most activities

    Return to most normal activities; grip strength improving

2–4 weeks

Sutures removed

Gradual return to light activities

4–6 weeks

Heavier work

Jobs with heavy gripping or manual labor may need 4–6 weeks off

6–8 weeks

Most activities

Grip strength improving

Many patients experience improvement in symptoms, particularly nighttime numbness and pain. Most do not require formal physical therapy — your surgeon will provide specific exercises to do at home.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

The procedure itself typically takes 15-30 minutes. Including preparation and recovery, you can expect to be at the facility for 1-2 hours.

Most patients do not require formal physical therapy. Your surgeon will provide specific exercises to do at home. If recovery is slower than expected, hand therapy may be recommended.

Desk work can often resume within a few days. Jobs requiring heavy gripping or manual labor may require 4-6 weeks off. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your occupation.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our team to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options.

Next step

Start your care journey.

Schedule a consultation to discuss your carpal tunnel symptoms and treatment options with our specialist. No referral required.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230
Related links

Continue your research.

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