The transverse carpal ligament is the flexible, slightly elastic
cord that lies on top of the carpal tunnel at the wrist. This
ligament connects the bones to each other where the wrist and
palm meet. The transverse carpal ligament may be cut during
surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. Cutting the ligament helps
relieve the pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the
carpal tunnel. (Pressure on the median nerve results in the
symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, including tingling,
numbness, weakness, or pain in the fingers, hand, or lower arm.)
Last Revised: October 21, 2010 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical
Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & David Pichora, MD,
FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery To learn more visit Healthwise.org ©
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