The forearm muscles or flexor muscles are cut and detached from the epicondyle. The cubital tunnel is cut open through the soft tissue roof exposing the ulnar nerve. In this procedure your surgeon will make an incision over the medial epicondyle, the bony bump on the inside of the elbow.
If your nerve compression is mild your surgeon may recommend a medial epicondylectomy.
Ulnar Nerve Transposition:This surgery involves creating a new tunnel in front of the medial epicondyle and transposing (moving) the ulnar nerve to the new tunnel.Your surgeon will decide which surgery would be best for you depending on your conditions. Medial Epicondylectomy: This surgery involves removing the medial epicondyle, the bony bump on the inside of the elbow, enabling the ulnar nerve to glide smoothly when the elbow is flexed and straightened. If conservative treatment options fail to resolve the condition or if muscle wasting or severe nerve compression is present, your surgeon may recommend you undergo a surgical procedure to treat cubital tunnel syndrome and this procedure is known as cubital tunnel release surgery.ĭifferent techniques are used to perform cubital tunnel release surgery and they include: You can also wrap the arm loosely with a towel and apply tape to hold in place. Conservative treatment options may include wearing a brace or splint at night while sleeping to keep the elbow in a straight position. Your physician will recommend conservative treatment options initially to treat the cubital tunnel syndrome symptoms unless muscle wasting or nerve damage is present. Bone spurs, ganglion cysts, or tumors can form in the cubital tunnel leading to pressure and irritation of the ulnar nerve. Leaning on the elbow for extended periods of time such as when working at a desk can also cause ulnar nerve irritation. Repeatedly bending and straightening the elbow can irritate and inflame the ulnar nerve. Individuals who perform repetitive elbow flexion movements at work or play are believed to be at high risk for developing cubital tunnel syndrome. Injury to the elbow such as fractures, dislocations, or a direct blow can cause tissue swelling which can compress the ulnar nerve within the cubital tunnel. These symptoms occur more frequently at night, and with elbow bending or prolonged resting on the elbow. Commonly reported symptoms associated with cubital tunnel syndrome include intermittent numbness, tingling, and pain to the little finger, ring finger, and the inside of the hand. Left untreated, cubital tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage in the hand. Signs and symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome usually occur gradually, progressing to the point where the patient seeks medical attention. When the ulnar nerve is compressed or entrapped, the nerve can tear and become inflamed leading to various symptoms. When the elbow is bent, the ulnar nerve can stretch and catch on the bony bump. 
The roof of the cubital tunnel is covered with soft tissue called fascia. The cubital tunnel is a narrow passageway on the inside of the elbow formed by bone, muscle, and ligaments with the ulnar nerve passing through its center. The ulnar nerve travels down the back of the elbow behind the bony bump called the medial epicondyle and through a passageway called the cubital tunnel. Cubital tunnel syndrome, also called ulnar nerve entrapment is a condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve in an area of the elbow called the cubital tunnel.
0 kommentar(er)
