Simple saline injection may help carpal tunnel patients avoid surgery
Researchers in India report a simple fifteen minute procedure using saline might help patients avoid carpal tunnel surgery.
A new study published in Radiology suggests this ultrasound guided injection offers longer lasting benefits than traditional steroid treatments. The minimally invasive technique could help some patients delay or completely avoid the need for surgical intervention on their wrists.
Doctors use real time ultrasound imaging to guide the injection precisely and separate the nerve from surrounding tissues. This fluid helps loosen adhesions which allows the nerve to move more freely without relying on medication.
A randomized controlled trial involving sixty three patients showed hydrodissection alone provided sustained clinical improvement while steroid injections saw recurring symptoms later. Ultrasound measurements indicated the median nerve size decreased significantly more in hydrodissection groups compared to other treatments.
Beyond providing sustained symptom relief the procedure lasted just fifteen minutes and was generally well tolerated by participants. Patients reported high satisfaction because the treatment was inexpensive and allowed them to return to work within an hour.