Dr. Timothy Larson

PATIENT PORTAL

940-299-4263

IN-OFFICE PROCEDURES


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Carpal tunnel is a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have persistent pain and dysfunction of their hand due to carpal syndrome that does not respond to splinting, therapy, or injections. Surgery is done under either a local or general anesthetic, and is a routing, outpatient procedure. The goal of the surgery is to release the transverse carpal ligament (the structure pinching the nerve), thereby allowing for more room within the carpal tunnel and thus less pressure on the nerve.

There are two techniques for performing carpal tunnel surgery: open or endoscopic. Open surgery involves a 1.5-2 inch incision at the base of the palm, and allows the surgeon to dissect down to the transverse carpal ligament (the structure pinching the nerve). The surgeon then releases the ligament, as well as any fascia, or connective tissue, in the palm or forearm that may be compressing the nerve.

The other option is to use an endoscope, which allows the ligament to be divided from within the carpal tunnel itself, avoiding the skin and muscle dissection in the palm. The endoscope, which is placed at one end of a thin, cylinder tube is inserted into the carpal tunnel by making a small (< 1-inch) incision at the wrist. At the other end of the tube, there is a sharp blade that can be raised to cut the ligament.

Studies have suggested that endoscopic carpal tunnel release has less pain and time missed from work, while being equally as safe and effective. Dr. Larson routinely performs both open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release. Using new camera technology, endoscopic release can now be done in an office-based setting, removing the need for a surgery center or hospital. Each patient is unique, and some Based upon each specific patient’s condition, wrist history, and use of the hand, an individualized surgical treatment plan is selected together.

More information for postoperative care for a carpal tunnel procedure can be found here.
A pinched “funny bone” is no laughing matter! Sometimes the Ulnar Nerve (often referred to as the “funny bone’ as it runs behind your elbow) can become trapped or kinked if the elbow is hyper flexed during activities or sleep. Or, you may tend to lean or put pressure on the elbow such as when driving, keyboarding, or using an armrest or wheelchair.

Similar to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, the symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include numbness, tingling, and burning in the fingers, palm, and forearm. The symptoms tend to be more in the small and ring finger side of the hand, but often the symptoms are as subtle as an “odd sensation” in the palm. Nerve studies can be useful in making the diagnosis of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, 

When non-operative treatment fails, release of the ulnar nerve at the elbow can be indicated. Usually the nerve can be decompressed and left in its natural position, but it may need to be moved, or transposed, to a position in front of the elbow. Surgery is done an outpatient procedure, and a short course of therapy can help speed up your recovery. Splinting after surgery is only needed if the nerve needs to be transposed.
Trigger finger, also known as “stenosing tenosynovitis,” is a painful condition that can cause any finger or thumb to catch or lock in a bent or straightened position. The problem arises from a constriction of the finger tendons as they pass through a series of tunnels, called pulleys, as they leave the palm and enter the finger.

Trigger finger may be associated with diabetes, rheumatism, or thyroid disorders, but is frequently due to overuse, repetitive activities or trauma to the hand. Fortunately, trigger finger or thumb can frequently be cured with a corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath. Sometimes surgery is required to correct the problem.
When is a bump on your finger just a bump, and when is it more? Mucous cysts are simple, fluid filled sacs commonly about the last knuckle of the fingers, and are usually due to underlying joint arthritis.

Many of these can be treated with non-surgical therapy, including anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections or aspirating the fluid.  However, many will need to be surgically excised, with a minor procedure performed under local anesthesia in an office setting.
Foreign body removal is a medical procedure used to remove objects or substances that have entered the body through accidental ingestion, inhalation, or insertion. It is a common practice in emergency departments and may also be performed by ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, or gastroenterologists, depending on the location of the foreign body.

The main objective of foreign body removal is to prevent further injury or complications that may arise from the presence of the foreign object. The procedure can range from simple techniques like tweezers or forceps to more complex interventions, such as endoscopy or surgery. The choice of method depends on various factors, including the type and location of the foreign body, as well as the patients overall health. Prompt and efficient foreign body removal is crucial to minimize the risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, or tissue damage. Once the foreign body is successfully removed, the patient is usually advised to monitor for any symptoms or signs of complications and to seek medical attention if necessary. 
Fingertip and fingernail injuries are all too common. Whether it's getting caught in a closing door, or a weight dropping on a finger, there really is no safe place for our fingers and thumbs!


Fingertip injuries often have open cuts and broken bones, and often the delicate tissue under our nail gets damaged. It is important to repair these structures, as our fingertips are not only our sense of touch, but our fingertips are tools that explore and fix things in our world, and a damaged nail can lead to pain or infections. 

So whether you have a broken bone or "just" a broken nail or a deep cut, these injuries often need a relatively minor procedure to get the healing process starting out right, so your fingertip and fingernail can return to its previous state of health and appearance.
Dupuytren’s Contracture is an inherited disorder of the collagen fibers that make up the structure to our hand. Over time, the fingers or thumb of the hand may be drawn into the palm, unable to be fully extended. While usually pain-free, this can cause dysfunction to the hand, and make it difficult to put the hand flat on a surface, or get your fingers into a glove.

Fortunately, there are several ways to address Dupuytren’s Contracture, including monitoring the hand, surgery, percutaneous procedures, and Xiaflex injections. The method of treatment will be chosen by the patient and the surgeon, and selected to best fit the patient’s desire and need.
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterized by pain and degeneration in the tendons of the forearm that connect to the outer side of the elbow. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, a tennis elbow percutaneous release may be considered.

This procedure involves using a minimally invasive approach to address the underlying issue causing the pain. During the surgery, local anesthesia is given. Then a small incision is made near the elbow, and a special instrument is inserted under ultrasound guidance to identify and then release the degenerative part of the  tendon, relieving tension and pressure. The goal of this procedure is to alleviate pain, restore functionality, and promote healing. By using a percutaneous approach, this technique minimizes scarring and allows for a much quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Tennis elbow percutaneous release has proven to be an effective treatment option for those experiencing chronic and debilitating pain in the elbow. However, like any surgical procedure, it is important to consult with a medical professional to determine if this is the most appropriate course of action for the individual case.
Wrist cyst excision is a surgical procedure performed to remove cysts that develop on or around the wrist joint. Cysts can form due to a variety of reasons, such as ganglion cysts which arise from inflamed joints or tendons. These cysts can cause discomfort, pain, and limited mobility.

During the wrist cyst excision procedure, the surgeon uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then, a small incision is made over the cyst, allowing the surgeon to carefully remove the cyst and its contents. In some cases, the surgeon may also need to remove a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath to prevent the cyst from recurring. Once the cyst is removed, the incision is closed with stitches, and a bandage is applied.

Recovery time is about 4-6 weeks for exercising and heavy lifting. Wrist cyst excision is a safe and effective method to alleviate discomfort and restore normal hand and wrist function.
Flexor and extensor tendon repair is a surgical procedure performed to repair injuries or lacerations to the flexor and extensor tendons in the hand and fingers. These tendons are responsible for controlling the movement of the fingers, allowing for bending (flexion) and straightening (extension) actions. When these tendons are damaged, it can severely impair the normal function of the hand and fingers. Therefore, prompt and accurate repair is crucial to restore proper hand function.

The procedure involves reattaching the severed or injured tendons using sutures or tiny anchors, and then immobilizing the hand or finger with a splint or cast to allow for proper healing. Physical therapy is usually prescribed following the surgery to help regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Successful outcomes of flexor and extensor tendon repair depend on various factors, including the location and severity of the injury, the skill of the surgeon, and the patients commitment to rehabilitation. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, patients can generally regain normal hand function and return to their daily activities. 

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