Carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes hand numbness and tingling, is often treated successfully with carpal tunnel release surgery. This operation alleviates pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, immediately addressing the underlying cause of the symptoms. While nerve compression relief is often rapid, physical recovery requires patience and specific care for the incision site. A primary concern for patients is understanding the timing and process for managing and removing surgical stitches.
The Typical Timeline for Suture Removal
The standard time frame for removing non-absorbable sutures after carpal tunnel release is between 10 and 14 days post-surgery. This period allows the skin edges to bond sufficiently and begin forming a stable scar before the external support is taken away. The exact timing is influenced by the surgeon’s preference and the patient’s overall health, as conditions like diabetes or poor circulation can slow healing.
The surgical technique used also affects the need for external stitch removal. An open carpal tunnel release involves a single, larger incision at the base of the palm. This incision is often closed with non-absorbable sutures that must be manually removed at a post-operative appointment.
In contrast, an endoscopic carpal tunnel release is a minimally invasive procedure using one or two much smaller incisions. These smaller wounds are frequently closed with absorbable sutures placed beneath the skin, which dissolve naturally over time and do not require removal. Sometimes, adhesive strips or a single external stitch are used, which may fall off or require removal. Patients should confirm with their care team what type of closure technique was used and whether a stitch removal appointment is necessary.
What Happens During the Removal Appointment
The suture removal appointment is a routine, quick outpatient procedure, often scheduled at the surgeon’s office or with a hand therapist. A nurse or physician performs the removal, which typically takes only a few minutes. The care provider first cleans the incision site thoroughly to ensure the area is sterile.
The process involves using sterile surgical scissors and forceps. The care provider gently lifts one end of the suture knot with the forceps and snips the thread close to the skin. They then gently pull the thread through the skin, removing the entire stitch. Patients usually report feeling a slight tugging sensation rather than sharp pain, as the skin has healed enough to hold itself together. After removal, the incision site is inspected to ensure the wound is fully closed and healing without complication.
Caring for the Wound After Stitches Are Out
Once external sutures are removed, the incision site transitions into the later stages of recovery, requiring new care instructions. It is generally safe to get the area wet with running water, such as during a shower, immediately after stitch removal. However, patients should avoid soaking the hand in a bath, hot tub, or swimming pool for another week or two to prevent waterborne bacteria from entering the site.
Monitoring the incision for signs of infection remains important. Patients should watch for increased redness that spreads beyond the incision line, excessive warmth, persistent or worsening pain, or pus-like discharge. Any of these symptoms warrant contacting the surgical team immediately.
Initial scar management can begin once the wound is fully closed, usually around the two-week mark. Gently massaging the scar with a moisturizing cream several times a day helps soften forming scar tissue. Protecting the new scar from direct sunlight for several months is also advised to prevent hyperpigmentation and promote optimal long-term appearance.