Radial Tunnel Release Info Consent

Why this operation has been suggested

This page reflects how Dr Kieran Hirpara, an upper-limb surgeon at Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, approaches this in our clinic. We usually recommend non-operative care first. This includes activity changes, physiotherapy, splinting, or injections. Surgery is considered when these steps do not give enough improvement.

Radial tunnel release is a procedure to free the radial nerve from tight tissue in your forearm. We suggest this if you have persistent pain or weakness that has not responded to conservative treatment. The goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve. This aims to reduce pain and improve your arm function. We review your specific case to decide if this is the right step for you.

Before the operation

Your surgeon will arrange tests like X-rays, blood work, or an anaesthetic review to check your health before surgery. Please fast from midnight the night before your procedure. Stop any blood-thinning medications only after your surgeon gives you specific instructions. Arrange a lift home for the day of surgery, as you cannot drive yourself. Bring a list of all current medications and wear comfortable, loose clothing. This operation uses a single conventional incision over the operative site to release the radial nerve. We will ensure you are fully informed about these steps during your pre-op visit.

On the day

You will arrive at the hospital and check in with our team. You will meet your anaesthetist to discuss your pain relief and sleep plan. This operation is done under general anaesthetic. You will be fully asleep for the operation. Some patients may also have a regional nerve block for post-operative pain relief — the anaesthetist decides on the day based on your individual circumstances.

You will then go to the operating theatre. Our surgeon performs this operation as an open approach with a single conventional incision over the operative site. This allows clear access to the area needing treatment. After the procedure, you will wake up in our recovery area. Our nurses will monitor your comfort and safety as you begin to recover from the anaesthetic.

What the operation involves

For radial tunnel release, your surgeon uses an open approach with a single conventional incision over the operative site. This cut gives direct access to the area where the radial nerve runs. The radial nerve is the main nerve supplying sensation and movement to parts of your forearm and hand.

Inside, your surgeon carefully identifies the radial nerve and protects it throughout the procedure. The goal is to release the nerve from any tight bands or tunnels of tissue that may be squeezing it. This process is called decompression. Your surgeon will dissect along the entire length of the fibrous tunnel to ensure all compression points are addressed. In some cases, if the nerve has been damaged beyond repair, your surgeon may discuss tendon transfers, which involve moving a working tendon to take over the function of the damaged one.

Once the nerve is fully released and protected, your surgeon closes the incision. The skin is stitched back together to heal. You will have a dressing over the wound to keep it clean and protected while it begins to recover. This single-incision method allows your surgeon to visualize the nerve clearly and safely without needing multiple small cuts or scopes.

After the operation

You will wake up in the recovery ward with your arm in a sling and a soft dressing. Your surgeon will manage your pain to keep you comfortable. This is usually a day case, so you can expect to go home the same day, although occasionally patients stay overnight. We use a single conventional incision over the operative site for this open approach. You must have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours. Keep the dressing dry and follow our advice on gentle movement. You can usually return to driving within two to three weeks, once any post-op splint is off and pain has settled enough to hold the wheel and react quickly. Patients in a splint must NOT drive. Read more at Driving after upper-limb surgery.

Recovery

You can expect some pain and swelling in the first few days. This is normal. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to ease the discomfort. Keeping your arm elevated helps reduce swelling. You may wear a splint or brace to protect the area while it heals. Avoid heavy lifting or gripping tasks until your surgeon clears you.

Your daily routine will change slightly. You will do gentle hand and wrist exercises to keep things moving. These are guided by your physiotherapist. We work with Ruby Doolan at Extend Rehabilitation for your hand therapy. This helps restore strength and flexibility safely. You can usually manage light tasks at home, like eating or writing, once pain settles.

Driving is possible once the splint is off and you can react quickly. This typically happens within two to three weeks. Do not drive if you are still wearing a splint or taking strong painkillers. See our guide on Driving after upper-limb surgery for more details.

Recovery varies between individuals. Your timeline may differ; your surgeon and physio will guide you. Focus on small milestones, like gripping without pain or lifting light objects. As movement returns, you will feel more confident. Trust the process and follow your care team’s advice.

What can go wrong

Most patients do well, but problems can occasionally happen. Your surgeon and the team monitor you closely to spot any issue early.

If you notice new or worsening pain, swelling, or redness around the elbow or forearm, this could signal an infection. Deep infections are rare but serious. Contact the clinic immediately if you have a fever or if the wound looks inflamed. Do not wait for your next scheduled review.

Nerve irritation is a known risk. You might feel tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hand or fingers. Sometimes this is temporary and settles on its own. However, if you notice sudden weakness in lifting your wrist or fingers, or if symptoms do not improve, tell your surgeon right away. Early attention helps protect nerve function.

In rare cases, a blood clot can form in the superficial veins of the forearm. This may feel like a tender, hard cord under the skin near the incision. While uncommon, it is important to report this to your clinic for proper assessment and management.

If you had surgery for a fracture, there is a small risk that the bone does not heal properly (nonunion). You might notice persistent pain or instability at the fracture site. Conversely, deep infection is another serious complication to watch for. Report any signs of infection promptly.

For patients undergoing complex elbow reconstruction, there is a risk of implant loosening or periprosthetic fracture (a break around the implant). These are devastating problems that can lead to significant disability. If you experience sudden severe pain or a change in the shape of your elbow, seek urgent medical care.

The complications table on this page lists typical rates if you want the specifics.

When to call us

Call us if you have fever, increasing wound redness, or discharge. Go to emergency if you have sudden severe pain, calf swelling, or shortness of breath. Contact us immediately if you notice loss of sensation or inability to move your limb. These signs need urgent assessment to protect your recovery.