Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Surgery
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Most patients suffering from this disorder will use non-surgical treatments methods to relieve nerve pressure. Surgery may be recommended if the symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome cannot be properly treated using non-surgical methods, the compression on the nerve is severe, or if a patient has experienced muscle waste.
There are a few surgical procedures available that relieve ulnar nerve compression. Cubital Tunnel Surgery is commonly an outpatient procedure. The type of surgery recommended is determined by the level of nerve compression. Diagnostic test will help your orthopedic surgeon to determine the severity of the condition and the best methods to treat it.
Ulnar Nerve Transposition
If ulnar nerve compression is significant or the ulnar nerve moves out of its natural position as a result of treatment, a doctor may recommend an Ulnar Nerve Transposition to relocate the nerve to the front of the elbow. The ulnar nerve is moved to a location where it is less likely to be compressed and stretched when the elbow is bent. The ulnar nerve may moved to an area directly under the skin, under the muscle, or within the muscle. This surgical procedure takes approximately an hour to perform.
Medial Epicondylectomy
A surgeon will remove the proper amount of the compressive area (medial epicondyle) to alleviate compression of the ulnar nerve when the elbow is straightened or flexed. The Medial Epicondyle located on the inner side of the elbow. This surgical technique is referred to as a Medial Epicondylectomy. This surgical procedure relieves more pressure on the ulnar nerve than a Cubital Tunnel Release procedure.
Cubital Tunnel Release
A Cubital Tunnel Release procedure involves cutting part of the ligament that is creating pressure on the Ulnar Nerve. The cutting of ligament decreases nerve pressure by creating additional space. nerve and decreases nerve pressure. After surgery, the ligament will heal, and new tissue will grow across the division created by the orthopedic surgeon.
Recovery time varies by the surgical technique used by an orthopedic surgeon. Patients who have had a Cubital Tunnel Release commonly have shorter recovery period that a patient who had a nerve transposed or surgery on bone. Post-operative treatment will also be contingent on the surgical technique used. Immobilization, elevating the arm, and physical therapy are common post-operative treatments.