question about CTS surgery for median nerve decompression and its effect on CRPS/RSD
 

I was diagnosed with CRPS/RSD two months ago following a triple break of the humerus. At the time of the diagnosis, I was given an electromyogram and was told that i also had "moderate CTS with no median nerve damage." I have been seeing an occupational hand therapist and I began to see some progress in diminishing of RSD symptoms.

About two weeks, the numbness in my thumb, index and middle finger started to get much worse. My physician repeated the electromyogram and this time, it showed progression in median nerve damage and she changed the diagnosis to severe CTS.

I have read studies that state that surgery to decompress the pressure on the median nerve can hasten RSD recovery. Others--older studies--state to stay away from CTS or any kind of surgery at all costs.

Does anyone have any experience with CTS surgery and positive outcomes for RSD symptoms? I will see a hand surgeon this coming week.

I believe RSD is a nerve entrapment syndrome
I have cubital tunnel syndrome. I also don't know what to do :(

Check out Dr. Dellon's web site. He is the founder of some nerve releases and if you call they may even answer your questions.

Hi fabiano
 

I am sorry you are going through this situation with needing surgery and having RSD at the same time. I just finished seeing an orthopedic surgeon for my ankle. I also have symptoms of RSD. Even though my ankle is bad, he did not recommend for me to have surgery. I limp, and need a wheelchair at times. He was worried about the RSD. Told me it is a bad idea to cut into a nerve damaged ankle, and that I could wind up with worse pain that I already have. This is a heck of a thing to be caught in. I am sorry you are in this kind of situation too. Make sure you do some research, and carefully ask about this before you submit to any surgery. I do wish you all the best. Welcome to Neuro Talk. You will meet alot of nice folks here who will respond to you. ginnie

Thank you so much for responding. I have read several studies that say if the person has RSD/CRPS Type II--the kind caused by nerve compression--then releasing the nerve could be helpful. But when you have RSD as you and I do, then any kind of surgery is dangerous. We are between a rock and a hard place. I would love to hear from someone who had a carpal tunnel release surgery which led to improvement of RSD symptoms...are you out there?

Hi fabiano
 

The rock and hard place isn't a fun position to be in. Do you have CTS? ginnie

Yes--severe CTS with increased nerve damage over the past month as documented by to electromyograms. Can you tell me how to become a "member"? I keep showing up as a visitor, but I have registered and would like to be a member.

I'm still hoping to hear from someone with CTS and RSD who may have had positive results with surgery.