u/msuobx

I had open CT surgery on August 12 and today is August 17, the day I could unwind the wrappings. What a difference from two years ago when I had my right (dominant) hand! The big difference is that two years ago I had stitches and this time had a medical grade glue. The difference in appearance is amazing. It hurts a bit if I grasp or lift something, but otherwise is fine. I can now look forward to not waking up with painful numbness. Here are my hands, both 5 days after surgery (with and without stitches). That purple is just the marker.

I had right hand (dominant) CTS almost exactly two years ago and left hand yesterday. Both were open, with nerve block and anesthesia (not general, but you are totally out and do not remember anything). The whole thing from arriving to surgery center to leaving is like 3.5 hours.

The worst part for me was having a totally numb hand for about 24 hours. To me, that’s worse than pain and it makes you feel like you cannot do anything. After it wears off, the pain is minimal; my doctor prescribed 5 Norco and I have needed only 2 in like 36 hours.

The only difference is that two years ago I had stitches and this time they used like a medical glue so it will dissolve or go away somehow. I am an early elementary (K-2) teacher and start school in ten days and will be fine.

Both times, the surgery was much, much easier than expected. Recovery last time was short and I expect it to be similar this time. If you are considering CT surgery, get it! I am so glad that I did.

Photo: here is my hand today after surgery yesterday. In five days, I can remove the dressing and will post it, along with photo from last time.