The level of terminal division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep branches-A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

Introduction: The level of division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep branches is of great clinical importance inulnar nerve entrapment at the wrist. This knowledge is significant during the surgical procedure of Guyon's canal release of the ulnar nerve and decompression of the deep motor branch. Objective: To measure the level of division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep branches. Materials and Methods: The study was done on sixty seven formalin fixed forearms. The division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep was traced. The level of division was measured using a divider from the radial styloid process. Results: In the present study mean level of division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep branches was 40 mm in 32 specimens of the left side and 42 mm in 35 specimens of the right side. The maximum percentage of the level of division of ulnar nerve was found in the range of 31 to 40 mm of the left side and on the right side maximum percentage was found in the range of 41 to 50 mm. Conclusion: The mean level of division of the ulnar nerve into superficial and deep branches is variable and is approximately 40 mm from the radial styloid process which would be helpful during the surgical decompression of the deep motor branch. Key words: Superficial and deep terminal branches of the ulnar nerve, Radial styloid process, Ulnar wrist pain, Guyon’s canal syndrome