Has anyone had carpal tunnel surgery with local?

Carpal Tunnel local: In many instances, this is performed with the use of a tourniquet which would make it quite difficult under local anesthesia. However, it is quite common under IV sedation or regional blocks.

Possible: The surgeon must be fast enough that the tourniquet doesn't have time to hurt. Also need motivated patient and surgeon skilled at using local anesthetics. Most people get some sedation, a bier block, nerve block...Up to general anesthesia, if needed, depending on circumstances.

Yes: This can be done if necessary. We will often do this for pregnant women due to concern for the fetus and any drugs that may affect it. Also people too sick for anesthesia.