Decompression of the ulnar nerve and minimal medial epicondylectomy with a small incision for cubital tunnel syndrome: comparison with anterior subcutaneous transposition of the nerve

Abstract

The objective of this study is to compare the results of ulnar nerve decompression and minimal medial epicondylectomy with a small incision (group I) and anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve (group II) for cubital tunnel syndrome.

METHODS: Out of 56 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome, 29 were in group I and 27 were in group II. The mean age at the time of the operation was 48.9 years, and the mean follow-up period was 36.4 months. Preoperatively, the neuropathy was graded according to Dellon's criteria.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the results of the two groups according to the modified Bishop's system at the last follow-up. However, four patients showed painful neuroma around the operation scar and one patient in group II had experienced acute deterioration of the symptoms after the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS: Decompression and minimal medial epicondylectomy with a small incision seems to be more recommendable than anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve for cubital tunnel syndrome in terms of its simplicity and lesser invasiveness.