A Victorian doctor is pioneering a micro-invasive procedure using guided ultrasound to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, potentially offering an alternative to traditional surgery. 

The nerve entrapment condition affects an estimated 3 to 6 per cent of the adult population, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand, fingers, and wrist.

The micro-invasive procedure by specialist anaesthetist Dr Peter Hebbard involves the insertion of a needle, guided by an external ultrasound, into the wrist using local anaesthetic.

A small blade deployed from the needle cuts the carpal tunnel ligament, relieving pressure on the median nerve.

“Doing lots of repetitive activities makes you more susceptible…I see a lot of cooks, I see hairdressers,” Hebbard said.

“It’s the convenience… we can do it in the clinic, it’s safer, and it’s got a quicker recovery.”

The procedure, which is partly covered by Medicare, is currently available in Victoria and Queensland, with plans to expand to other states. 

And while it is considered minimally invasive, as with any procedure, there are risks involved.