Carpal Tunnel Release Complications

I had carpal tunnel release surgery on both hands recently (10/2/08 Left &10/22/09 Right) . The surgery on my left hand turned out well and I am not having any problems but I developed MRSA in the incision of the right hand immediately and have had multiple problems ever since. I was treated with IV Vancomycin 1gm bid x 14 days and Bactrim DS bid x 2 months. First I developed large Keloids on my scar and deep pain in my entire palm. This has lessened but has not gone away completly especially if I try to grasp any object or use pressure to use a can opener or open a bottle. Then at 4 months I developed severe right thumb pain and when I saw an Orthopedic Surgeon I was told it was "Pillar Pain" and my thumb joint was bone to bone and had been pushed halfway off the joint by the expanding Ligaments. Now 1 month later I still have both palm pain, more severe thumb pain and trigger thumb. I also have developed moderate constant pain in my left knee joint. I was told that when "the pain got bad enough" I would need to come back for more surgery. Can you please make sense of this? I am 53 years old, work full time and love to garden, can and do alot of crafts. My right hand and thumb and left knee are in constant pain. I am frustrated. Thank-you for any help you can give me. Sunshine  

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Infections after surgery can be devestating.  However,they do happen, and can often be controlled or eradicated with proper care. Many times they delay recovery, but recovery does happen.  The key is dilegence and patience, combined with agressive care when needed.