WALANT Procedure

Written by Dr. Edward J. Armbruster

WALANT Procedure (Wide Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet) offers a groundbreaking approach to hand and upper extremity procedures. This technique eliminates the need for general anesthesia, sedation, fasting, or stopping blood thinning medications. WALANT is particularly effective for smaller procedures, such as carpal tunnel release and trigger finger release, enabling faster recovery with fewer risks. This technique is typically covered by insurance.

What is WALANT Procedure?

WALANT is a minimally invasive technique using local anesthesia to numb the surgical area. By combining anesthesia with epinephrine to control bleeding, it eliminates the need for a tourniquet. Patients remain fully awake and responsive, which minimizes many risks associated with traditional surgery, such as nausea, grogginess, and extended recovery time. This technique is ideal for individuals with conditions that make anesthesia risky or for those seeking a cost-effective, quick recovery option.

Benefits of WALANT Procedure

1. No General Anesthesia Required

Avoids sedation-related side effects like nausea, dizziness, and prolonged recovery. No fasting required before surgery. Patients can drive home after the procedure.

2. Shorter Recovery Times

Faster return to daily activities due to the minimally invasive nature of the surgery.

3. Safe for Patients on Blood Thinners

Medications like aspirin or warfarin typically do not need to be paused.

4. Immediate Feedback During Surgery

Patients can move their hands during the procedure, ensuring optimal surgical outcomes.

5. Cost-Effective

Procedures often don’t require operating rooms or anesthesia staff, reducing overall costs.

Common WALANT Procedures

WALANT is effective for various hand and upper extremity surgeries. This technique is mostly used on non-boney procedures, including:

1. Carpal Tunnel Release

Relieves pressure on the median nerve to alleviate symptoms such as pain and numbness.

2. Trigger Finger Release

Addresses conditions where fingers lock or catch during movement.

3. Tendon Repairs

Restores mobility and function to damaged tendons in the hands and fingers.

Frequently asked Questions:

People Who Could Benefit from the WALANT Procedure 

WALANT surgery is a great option for patients looking to avoid general anesthesia, especially those with health conditions, on blood thinners, or seeking minimal recovery time. Many patients report a positive experience and would choose WALANT again for future procedures.

Pregnant Women

General anesthesia poses risks during pregnancy – WALANT avoids those risks by using only local numbing.

People on Blood Thinners

WALANT doesn’t require a tourniquet or sedation, reducing bleeding risks and allowing some patients to stay on their medications.

Patients with Heart or Lung Conditions

No stress from sedation or airway management – WALANT is safer for people with cardiac or respiratory issues.

Senior Adults

Reduces risk of confusion or complications associated with general anesthesia.

People Who Prefer to Avoid Sedation

Stay fully awake, aware, and in control during your procedure — with no grogginess afterward.

Busy Individuals

Get in and out faster, with less downtime and quicker return to daily life.

Cost-Conscious Patients

No anesthesia team or operating room needed — that often means lower out-of-pocket costs.

Advanced Care at AOSMI

At AOSMI, we prioritize innovative, patient-centered care. WALANT surgery is one of the many advanced treatment options we provide to ensure effective results with minimal disruption to your daily life. For more information about WALANT surgery or to schedule a consultation, contact AOSMI today.