Pioneering ultrasound-guided technique transforms carpal tunnel care and frees up operating theatres

13 August 2025

Patients are now benefiting from a ground-breaking surgical innovation that is transforming the way carpal tunnel syndrome is treated—offering faster recovery, lower costs, and no visible scars.

Consultant Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon Mr Preetham Kodumuri has introduced Ultrasound-Guided Carpal Tunnel Release (UGCTR) at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, the first service of its kind in NHS Wales. The technique, performed under local anaesthetic in a minor procedure room, eliminates the need for a traditional operating theatre and significantly reduces the burden on surgical teams.

The service launched in February 2023 with plans in place to expand the service more widely across the Health Board as part of a broader effort to modernise and streamline surgical care.

Mr Kodumuri said: “By moving this high-volume procedure out of theatres and into streamlined outpatient settings, we’re not only improving patient recovery – we’re also freeing up vital theatre space for more complex surgeries.

“We are also seeing a number of benefits through carrying out the service this way such as the cost per case dropping from £2,100 to £760 as well as improving the patient experience – there is no incision, no stiches, no scar – patients return to normal activity faster, with fewer complications.”

The introduction of the UGCTR service is part of a broader strategy to modernise surgical care across the Health Board, with a focus on sustainability, access and innovation. The service compliments the successful expansion of the Minor Operating Procedure Rooms across North Wales.

“This is about delivering smarter surgery. We’re using technology to improve outcomes, reduce costs, and give patients a better experience. It’s a win for everyone.”