Earlier this month, Dr. Robert Kirtley of Southern Healthcare Alliance (SHA) was the first physician in Valdosta, Georgia to perform micro-invasive carpal tunnel release procedures with the SX-One MicroKnife.

The SX-One  MicroKnife® is an ultra-low profile surgical device that allows physicians to perform Micro-invasive carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgery through a single micro-incision (4-5 mm) using ultrasound guidance. It is so small that the micro-incision can be closed with a small adhesive bandage or strip. In addition, the device is designed to protect sensitive anatomy when the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) is cut during the procedure.

“This alternative procedure for carpel tunnel is less invasive and patients heal faster, Dr. Kirtley explains. “I am excited to offer this unique procedure not offered anywhere else in the area.”

Other carpel tunnel surgery, Kirtley said can leave a large scar and recovery time can be up to six weeks for patients.

Kirtley has successfully completed four CTR procedures this month with the SX-One  MicroKnife® using only local anesthesia. And, at follow-up (48 hours post-surgery) all four patients reported they had no pain.

Kirtley stated that one patient told me his hand already felt better than it did before the surgery and another one felt pressure relief and less tingling in only two days. And, this without prescribed pain medications.

Carpel Tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm.  At SHA we first access the patient to see if the symptoms can be treated without surgery.