_edited.png)
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: Advanced Minimally Invasive Treatment in Durango, Colorado
Dr. Brian Butzen MD has been helping patients overcome carpal tunnel syndrome in Durango, Colorado since 2013. As a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand and wrist conditions, Dr. Butzen brings over a decade of experience to endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery. His commitment to the Four Corners community extends throughout Durango, Farmington, New Mexico, Cortez, Colorado, and his satellite clinic in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Patients consistently appreciate Dr. Butzen's skilled approach to minimally invasive carpal tunnel surgery and his clear explanations of treatment options.
Last week, a computer programmer from Pagosa Springs came to see Dr. Butzen after months of waking up with numb hands. "I kept shaking my hands to get the feeling back," she explained during her appointment. "My boss noticed I was making more typing mistakes, and I was getting scared about my job." After examining her hands and confirming carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Butzen discussed endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery as her best treatment option. Her story reflects what many people in our tech-connected world experience when carpal tunnel syndrome affects their livelihood.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when pressure builds up in a narrow space in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. Picture a small tunnel in your wrist with nine tendons and one nerve passing through it. When tissues swell around this tunnel, they squeeze the nerve that controls feeling in your thumb, index, middle, and part of your ring finger.
This compression causes hand numbness, tingling, and sometimes weakness. Many people first notice symptoms at night when they wake up shaking their hands to restore feeling. The problem often gets worse over time if not treated properly.
Dr. Butzen sees carpal tunnel syndrome regularly in his Durango practice. Office workers, construction workers, artists, and anyone who uses repetitive hand motions can develop this condition. The symptoms may start gradually but often progress to affect work performance and quality of life.
What is Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Endoscopic carpal tunnel release is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome by relieving pressure on the median nerve in your wrist. During this procedure, your surgeon makes one or two small incisions (about half an inch each) and uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to visualize the carpal tunnel.
Through this approach, the surgeon carefully cuts the transverse carpal ligament—the band of tissue that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel—which creates more space for the median nerve and reduces compression.
This technique typically results in less tissue damage, smaller scars, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery, with many patients experiencing reduced pain and numbness within weeks.
However, like any surgical procedure, endoscopic carpal tunnel release carries some risks, and your hand surgeon will evaluate whether you're a good candidate based on the severity of your symptoms, nerve studies, and how well you've responded to conservative treatments.
What to Expect Before Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Before scheduling your surgery, we'll make sure you're a good candidate. This includes:
-
Detailed examination - I'll test your hand strength, range of motion, sensation and pain levels to identify carpal tunnel syndrome.
-
Specialized Studies - EMG testing (nerve testing) can help identify the severity of the problem, helping me plan the best surgical approach.
-
Medical clearance - We'll review your overall health to ensure you're ready for surgery and anesthesia.
-
Setting realistic expectations - Recovery from endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery takes time. Most people see significant improvement, but it's a gradual process that requires patience and commitment to rehabilitation.
Success Rates and Long-term Outcomes
Endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery has an excellent success rate when done properly. In my practice, over 98% of patients report significant improvement in pain and function. Most people return to their desired activities within 6 weeks.
However, success depends on several factors:
-
Severity of carpal tunnel syndrome (compression on the nerve)
-
Duration of symptoms
-
Atrophy of median-innervated muscles
-
Early activity level (can cause inflammation - slowing recovery)
The Surgery Day Experience
On surgery day, most patients arrive at our surgical center in Durango early in the morning. The surgery itself takes only a few minutes, but preparation to safely perform the surgery also takes time.
You'll receive general anesthesia, so you'll be completely asleep during the surgery. Local anesthetic is injected at the time of surgery, so you wake up with minimal pain.
After surgery, you'll spend time in recovery before going home the same day. Usually, the pain can be controlled with over the counter medications.
Common Concerns About Carpal Tunnel Surgery
"Will I need another surgery?" - Most carpal tunnel release surgeries last life-long. However, excessive scar tissue can form for various reasons, which may necessitate further surgery. Carpal tunnel syndrome and recur, typically many years later, if at all.
"How much pain will I have?" - Modern pain management techniques make recovery much more comfortable than in the past. Most patients describe the pain as manageable with over the counter medication.
"When can I drive again?" - You can usually drive when you're off the pain medication after surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Brian Butzen for Your Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Since 2013, I've been helping patients in the Four Corners region recover from shand. As partner of Animas Orthopedic Associates, I focus specifically on shoulder, wrist, and hand problems. My fellowship training in upper extremity surgery means I've received specialized education beyond general orthopedic surgery.
I understand the active lifestyle of people in Durango, Farmington, Cortez, and Pagosa Springs. Whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who needs their shoulder for work, I'll create a treatment plan that fits your life and goals.
My patients appreciate my straightforward approach. I'll tell you honestly whether surgery is right for you or if other treatments might work better. When surgery is the best option, I'll explain exactly what to expect and support you through every step of recovery.
If you're dealing with hand numbness and tingling that's affecting your daily life, don't wait for it to get worse. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be straightforward to treat, and early identification and treatment can lead to successful treatment without surgery. Delaying treatment can make surgery a requirement, and more complex and your recovery longer.
I see patients at my main office in Durango and also have a satellite clinic in Pagosa Springs for the convenience of patients in that area. Whether you're coming from Farmington, Cortez, or anywhere in the Four Corners region, I'm here to help you get back to the activities you love.
The first step is a thorough evaluation to understand what's causing your hand numbness and tingling. Together, we'll create a treatment plan that gets you back to living without limitations. Remember, endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery isn't just to fix nerve compression - it's about restoring your quality of life.
With the right treatment approach and commitment to recovery, most patients return to full, pain-free function. If you're ready to take the next step toward healing, I'm here to guide you through the process with the expertise and personal attention you deserve.
Take the first step toward expert care and lasting relief