Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Problem

  • Numbness and tingling affecting the little and ring fingers

Cause

  • Compression of the ulna nerve as it goes around the elbow

Diagnosis

  • Numbness and tingling in the distribution of the ulna nerve
  • Weakness and wasting to the small muscles of the hand
  • Positive Tinnels (tapping) sign at the elbow
  • Nerve Conduction Tests can help but are often normal as the problem is usually intermittent

Treatment

Non Op

  • Splinting the elbow out straight

Operative

  • GA, Day Case
  • Simple Release
  • Incision on the inside of the elbow joint
  • Release of ‘Osbornes Ligament’ over the ulna nerve
  • Occasionally the nerve subluxes from its groove and needs to be transposed to the front of the elbow. This can be subcutaneous (beneath the kin) or submuscular (beneath the muscle).

Potential Complications

  • Infection, Haematoma
  • Nerve Injury
  • Incomplete recovery of the nerve

Post Op Care

  • Day Surgery
  • Bulky bandage for 10 days
  • Removal of sutures at 10 days
  • If simple release mobilise as comfortable
  • If transposition restrict elbow movement for 3-4 weeks
  • Surgical review at 10 days, six weeks and 3 months
University Of Auckland Auckland Born Joint Surgery Fracs NZOA  University Of Auckland Auckland Born Joint Surgery Fracs