Cubital tunnel syndrome: a surgical modification to in situ decompression to improve results

Managing Ulnar Nerve Subluxation With a Medial Intermuscular Septum Sling

BACKGROUND

Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is a lifestyle-altering peripheral neuropathy lacking a consensus for optimal surgical management. We describe creation of a fascial "V-sling" without ulnar nerve transposition, which is associated with increased surgical morbidity compared with decompression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a novel technique with effective ulnar nerve decompression and subluxation prevention by creating a fascial sling in patients with CuTS and ulnar nerve subluxation.

METHODS

We reviewed records of 39 elbows in 35 patients who underwent in situ ulnar nerve decompression and creation of a fascial sling in a "V" configuration to stabilize the nerve in its native position. We examined patient demographics, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) scores, and patient outcomes. Chi-square and student's t test were used for all analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 37 extremities in 33 patients undergoing nerve decompression had nerve subluxation confirmed intraoperatively. There was a statistically significant change in preoperative and postoperative SANE scores of 64.5 and 82.3, respectively. Mean QuickDASH scores decreased significantly from 49.3 preoperative to 10.8 postoperative. The long-term QuickDASH scores obtained at mean of 564 days were maintained at 10.76.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes a novel technique for treating CuTS by achieving in situ nerve decompression and addressing ulnar nerve subluxation with creation of an intermuscular septal sling. The technique improved functional outcomes and provided symptomatic relief, while avoiding risks commonly associated with nerve transposition.

A Retrospective Cohort Study of Decompressive Techniques for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: In Situ Decompression Versus Ulnar Nerve Transposition

BACKGROUND

Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is the second most common nerve entrapment syndrome of the upper extremity after carpal tunnel syndrome. In situ decompression (ISD) and ulnar nerve transposition (UNT) are the major surgery methods in practice for the treatment of CuTS. However, controversies exist over the efficacy and safety of these methods.

AIM

The objective of the study was to compare the short- and long-term clinical outcomes in patients treated with ISD and UNT surgery.

METHOD

This was a retrospective study comprising 56 patients who underwent either ISD or UNT at Naresuan University Hospital between January 2013 and December 2022. Data on age, sex, hand involved, duration of the surgery, duration of the symptoms including the clinical outcomes such as elbow range of motion (ROM), quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (QuickDASH), McGowan grade (MGG), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain scores, motor and sensory conduction velocity (MCV1, MCV2, and SCV), and Tinel's sign were collected during the two-week, one-month, three-month, and six-month follow-ups post-surgery.

RESULTS

 Of the 56 patients in the study, 62.5% were female. The number of patients aged <60 years was higher in both groups. The mean age of patients in the ISD group was 49.07±6.13 years, while in the UNT group, it was 51.5±7.04 years. After one month, 53.57% and 32.14% of the patients recovered to MGG 1 in the ISD and UNT groups, respectively. The majority of the patients had MGG 1 six months after the surgery. The QuickDASH score and pain scores of the patients improved during all follow-ups, but no statistical significance was revealed when the two techniques were compared.

CONCLUSION

The study found that both the ISD and UNT were efficient and safe in treating CuTS. Further study with the inclusion of parameters such as revision surgery and complications would be vital.

From Conservative Measures to Surgical Interventions, Treatment Approaches for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is a neuropathic condition characterized by the compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, resulting in a wide spectrum of symptoms ranging from pain and numbness to muscle weakness and impaired hand function. This comprehensive review delves into the diverse landscape of CuTS treatment approaches, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. The review explores how these strategies aim to alleviate symptoms and enhance patient well-being by beginning with conservative measures encompassing rest, splinting, medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Non-surgical medical interventions, including nerve gliding exercises, ultrasound-guided nerve injections, and orthotic devices, are considered alternative therapies for symptom relief. Surgical interventions, such as decompression procedures and emerging techniques, are discussed in detail, highlighting their indications and expected outcomes. Throughout this review, the critical role of patient-centered care is underscored, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment plans that respect individual preferences and goals. Recognizing the unique nature of each CuTS case, shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers is advocated, ensuring that interventions align with specific patient needs. As research advances, promising developments in diagnosis, surgical techniques, and drug therapies offer hope for more effective management of CuTS, paving the way for improved symptom relief and enhanced nerve function.

In Situ Stabilization of the Ulnar Nerve as an Alternative to Transposition in Traumatic Ulnar Nerve Instability: A Case Report

CASE

We present the case of a 25-year-old male sports climber treated with in situ ulnar nerve stabilization for ulnar nerve instability (UNI) by using 2 fascial flaps.

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic UNI has traditionally been managed with subcutaneous or submuscular ulnar nerve transposition. Transposition is relatively invasive and when performed subcutaneously, embeds the ulnar nerve in an exposed location, which may render it prone to mechanical injury in physically active patients. In situ stabilization may be a less invasive alternative to transposition in select patients involved in sports such as rock climbing.

A Review of Upper Extremity Peripheral Nerve Injuries in Throwing Athletes

Peripheral nerve injuries in the upper extremities may be common in throwing athletes as the throwing motion places extreme stress on the dominant arm. The combination of extreme stress along with repetitive microtrauma from throwing uniquely places the throwing athlete at elevated risk of upper extremity peripheral nerve injury. However, because symptoms can be non-specific and frequent co-exist with pathology in the upper extremity, the diagnosis of peripheral nerve injury is often delayed. Diagnosis of peripheral nerve injuries may require a combination of history and physical exam, diagnostic imaging, electrodiagnostic testing, and diagnostic ultrasound guided injections. The primary management should include physical therapy focusing on throwing mechanics and kinetic chain evaluation. However, some athletes require surgical intervention if symptoms do not improve with conservative management. The purpose of this focused narrative review is to highlight upper extremity peripheral neuropathies reported in throwing athletes and to provide an overview of the appropriate clinical diagnosis and management of the throwing athlete with a peripheral nerve injury. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.