Carpal Tunnel Release Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist. The medium nerve is responsible for feeling and movement of the thumb and thumb-side of the hand. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may include numbness, tingling, weakness, and/or muscle wasting in the hand and fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome is thought to be due to repetitive motion activities of the upper extremities and use of devices like computer keyboards. The procedure to correct carpal tunnel syndrome may be performed with local or regional anesthesia and IV sedation, or with the patient deep asleep under general anesthesia. An incision is made by the surgeon on the inside of the wrist and the carpal ligament is cut open. This relieves the pressure on the median nerve. Stitches or sutures are used to close the incision. The area around the incision and nearby fingers may remain numb for many hours due to the injection of local anesthesia in the operative region. Tingling in the fingers may remain for several weeks. Patients should consult their surgeon for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.